Working towards true co-production in adult social care

As someone who has navigated the complexities of disability and identifies as part of the queer and LGBT+ community, my journey through adult social care has been anything but straightforward. For years, managing these systems has posed significant challenges, and engaging with governments to amplify the voices of lived experiences has become both a passion and a necessity for me. 
 
The incoming new government brings with it a mix of optimism and apprehension. It’s a time of potential, but also one of uncertainty. I recently had the opportunity to discuss these issues with Stephen Kinnock, Minister of State for Care, and our conversation was both enlightening and engaging. While there were plenty of laughs, there were also moments of serious reflection on the critical need to integrate lived experiences into the core of policy-making. 
 
One of my key points of discussion was how the government plans to ensure a genuine commitment to co-producing initiatives and inclusively engaging diverse voices. People with lived experience are eager to be part of the solution, and I made it very clear that this involvement is crucial. When people with lived experience are actively engaged, it leads to better outcomes for individuals and the system as a whole, and it can save money in the long run. This approach not only addresses issues more effectively but also ensures that policies are practical and truly responsive to the needs of those they aim to support. 
 
The work of Think Local Act Personal and its affiliated National Co-production Advisory Group of which I am co-chair, is rooted in the principles and values of co-production. This is articulated by the key Making It Real statement ‘I am supported to make decisions by people who see things from my point of view, with concern for what matters to me, my wellbeing and health.’ 
 
We believe this is the only way to get us closer to the social care future vision where everyone should be able to live in a place they call home, surrounded by the people and things they love, in communities where we support one another, and engage in activities that matter to us. 
 
This underscores the importance of involving people at the policy decision level and ensuring that their perspectives and needs are genuinely understood and considered. 
 
I also emphasised to the minister that tackling inequality must be central to this agenda. The room felt notably homogeneous, with myself as the sole racialised person present. It is vital that the voices of all marginalised groups are included in shaping these policies. Addressing inequality must go beyond recognition to ensure that everyone, irrespective of their background, benefits from advancements in care and support. 
 
The minister’s response was positive, reflecting a real commitment to broadening the scope of lived experiences in policy-making, working with TLAP and others in the room. This is crucial, as policies often end up being interpreted in ways that don’t align with the realities of those they are designed to support. 
 
While this marks a significant step forward, there is still much work to be done. We are ready and enthusiastic to support the new government in overcoming these challenges and turning their vision into tangible improvements for everyone.