How true co-production is shaping the future of social care at Camphill Village Trust.
At Camphill Village Trust, we know that innovation in social care doesn’t come from the top down; it grows from within our communities. It starts with listening. It’s rooted in relationships. And it’s brought to life through co-production.
Co-production is innovation in action
When we talk about innovation, we often picture technology or new systems. But in social care, innovation looks like asking different questions. It means involving people with lived experience to shape not just the services they receive, but the ideas and decisions behind them.
That’s what we’ve done with our Life of Opportunity statements. These ten I-statements weren’t written for the people we support; they were co-produced by them. Through honest conversation and shared reflection, people told us what matters most: real relationships, confidence, meaningful roles in their communities, and support that helps them thrive.
Now, these statements guide everything we do, from support planning to organisational strategy. That’s innovation in action.
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- Co-production in action
Life of Opportunity Reviews: Led by peers, grounded in lived experience
One of the most powerful ways we continue this work is through our Life of Opportunity Reviews. These are carried out by trained reviewers, people we support, who are paid for their time and expertise.
They visit different communities within Camphill Village Trust to find out what’s working well, what can be improved and how we can co-create lives full of opportunities. They ask the important questions. They listen. And they report back with insights that help us improve our practice in real, meaningful ways.
It’s peer led. It’s person-centred. And it’s a brilliant example of co-production in action.
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- Simon – A Life of Opportunity Reviewer
Co-production as a catalyst for change
As we celebrate Co-production Week, we’re reminded that innovation isn’t about flashy ideas, it’s about asking, “What matters to you?”.
At Camphill Village Trust, we’re committed to being shaped by the people we support. Co-production fuels our progress and ensures that every step forward is taken together.
Because real innovation in social care doesn’t happen without people, it happens with them.
