Co-Producing Change Together

I first got in touch with Co-Production Collective as I was struggling to find organisations that shared similar values and approaches to work that I do. The thing that I initially valued, and still value, is the sense of purpose and commitment to putting people front and centre. I’ve already learnt a great deal about how to get co-production ‘right’!

I first got involved during lockdown, and since my involvement I have not turned back. Gradually, I built confidence over the months and have been able to connect with some beautiful hearted, selfless people. The greatest aspect that I value is the sheer volume of support and the mutual respect and understanding when making decisions.

By being involved in the Collective, I’m constantly challenged to do better in my research. I get to work with a diverse range of people to reflect on how to make research more meaningful and impactful to the communities that stand to benefit from it.

In my first language, I've found 'apnapan', meaning family and tribe. Co-Production Collective are always ready to listen - it's so refreshing because often BAME people aren’t taken notice of. They're inclusive and accessible in their approach and open to learning if they don’t know something.

The idea for the Collective began life as just a few words on paper. Now it is a living, breathing, exciting venture. By challenging assumptions and supporting people to work differently I believe it is playing a vital role in helping us tackle some of society’s biggest health challenges from a fresh perspective.

I value being part of the Co-production Collective because it provides a way to engage with like-minded individuals in the collective pursuit of increasing the regularity and quality of co-produced health research.

As a carer for my son, who has Cystic Fibrosis, I became aware that health and social care provision was system moulded rather than person-centred. I was on the hunt for genuine collaborative working, to co-produce positive change. For the first 3 years I found a few crumbs and the occasional nugget. Then I discovered the Collective – I had arrived!!

The Co-Production training felt like a safe space among equals and meant we were able to address any pre-conceived worries or barriers to co-production in research as a two-way approach to learning. The future of research is co-produced so without a doubt, all PhD students need this training!