New reference guide promotes co-production with young people in clinical psychology
The reference guide was written by Sarah Parry, Kate Cudmore, and members of the Faculty for Children, Young People and their Families committee.
09 October 2023
The BPS Division of Clinical Psychology's Faculty for Children, Young People and their Families has published a new document which focuses on how meaningful co-production can improve services and outcomes for young people and families.
Co-production involves including those using services in planning, decision-making, delivery and evaluation, and recognises the skills, knowledge and experiences that young people and families can bring to the table in the development of services.
The reference guide suggests five key areas of focus when co-producing a service:
- Communication – Developing a shared language which does not prioritise or privilege specialist language or knowledge
- Empowerment and inclusivity – Designing a co-production space which promotes equality and confidence
- Safety – Ensuring physical, emotional and psychological safety within the co-production space
- Celebrate and recognise contributions – Consider how to recognise people's contributions, knowledge and skills
- Facilitate, don't fix – Co-production can be compassionate and validating but should not 'feel like therapy'
It also includes sections on discussing co-production with young people effectively, and ensuring it is engaging, creative and collaborative.