2 July 2025
By Strategic Commissioner, Cornwall
In Cornwall, we asked a bold question: How do we make adult social care work with people—not just for them? That question sparked a transformation.
Launched in summer 2023, our Personalisation Programme set out to boost independence, rethink care delivery, and focus on prevention. But we quickly realised: real personalisation means shared power. So, we leaned into co-production.
From consultation to co-creation
We started with an open invite—over 80 experts by experience joined us online, not to be consulted, but to co-design. Their feedback was honest, challenging, and game-changing. The message was clear: if we’re doing co-production, we’re doing it properly.
Building together
Out of those conversations came our Co-Production Framework—crafted with people, not behind closed doors. It set out our commitments, how co-production works, and what residents can expect—including fair pay for their time.
Leadership followed suit. Our steering group is co-chaired by David Burns from Citizen Checkers and Alison Bulman, Director of Adult Social Services—a true partnership driving real change.
Tools for real impact
We co-created a toolkit to embed co-production in everyday work. It’s not a manual—it’s a living resource, packed with values-based guidance, inclusive meeting tools, and strengths-based planning tips. And we backed it with co-produced training, delivered with people with lived experience.
Making it matter
Co-production in Cornwall isn’t just a concept—it’s driving real change. Our steering group, made up of council staff and experts by experience, has helped shape everything from our “I” and “We” statements to practical tools for frontline teams. Together, we’ve co-designed services like day opportunities and direct payments support, and are co-producing strategies for autism and carers.
One standout success? The Accelerating Reform Fund. Through this national initiative, our co-production approach delivered tangible improvements for carers and people receiving support—proving that when we design with people, not for them, the results speak for themselves.
A new model for collaboration
In February 2025, we paused to reflect. Over 60 people—mostly with lived experience—came together at a face to face event to shape what’s next. The result? A new two-part model:
- The Board: overseeing all co-production activity
- The Assembly: where ideas are shared, services shaped, and decisions influenced
This isn’t just about better services—it’s about trust, transparency, and true collaboration.
Looking ahead
Now, co-production is expanding beyond social care. The Board and Assembly are becoming central to all council work—from housing to transport. Experts by experience are now embedded in decision-making, ensuring Cornwall’s services reflect the voices of those who use them.
We’re not just changing how we work—we’re changing who we work with. And that’s how we build a Cornwall that works for everyone.
