Co-production represents a fundamental shift in how healthcare services are designed and delivered. Rather than doing things 'to' or 'for' people, co-production means doing things 'with' people.
The Principles of Co-production
True co-production is built on several key principles:
- Recognising people as assets with valuable skills and experience
- Building on people's capabilities rather than focusing on deficits
- Developing mutually beneficial relationships
- Breaking down the barriers between 'professionals' and 'service users'
Making It Work
Successful co-production requires commitment at all levels of an organisation. It means changing power dynamics and truly valuing the expertise that comes from lived experience.