Embedding Co-Production in Learning Disability Person-Centred Planning
Share
Co-production is a core expectation within person-centred planning for learning disability services. Commissioners increasingly distinguish between genuine co-production and superficial consultation, expecting providers to demonstrate how people actively shape their own support.
This expectation links closely with person-centred planning in learning disability services and wider principles around core values and rights-based practice. Plans developed without meaningful involvement rarely deliver sustained outcomes.
What co-production means in person-centred planning
Co-production goes beyond asking for opinions. In practice, it means:
- people being involved from the outset of planning
- shared decision-making rather than professional dominance
- valuing lived experience as equal to professional expertise
This approach shifts power dynamics within planning processes.
Supporting meaningful involvement
Providers must actively support people to participate. This includes:
- using accessible communication tools
- allowing time for reflection and discussion
- involving advocates or trusted supporters where appropriate
Without these adjustments, involvement risks becoming symbolic.
Co-producing outcomes and goals
Outcomes should reflect what matters most to the person. Effective co-produced plans:
- capture personal aspirations, not service-led goals
- avoid generic outcomes that mirror organisational priorities
- link goals directly to everyday support activity
This increases motivation and engagement.
Balancing professional responsibility and shared control
Co-production does not remove professional accountability. Providers must:
- explain statutory or safeguarding boundaries clearly
- support informed decision-making
- record how differing views are resolved
Transparency strengthens trust and credibility.
Recording evidence of co-production
Commissioners expect evidence beyond statements of intent. This includes:
- records showing how views influenced decisions
- changes made following feedback
- review notes capturing evolving preferences
Documentation should clearly show the person’s voice.
Why co-production matters to commissioners
From a commissioning perspective, co-production:
- improves relevance and sustainability of support
- reduces complaints and disengagement
- aligns with rights-based and strengths-led models
Providers who embed co-production are seen as higher quality and lower risk.
💼 Rapid Support Products (fast turnaround options)
- ⚡ 48-Hour Tender Triage
- 🆘 Bid Rescue Session – 60 minutes
- ✍️ Score Booster – Tender Answer Rewrite (500–2000 words)
- 🧩 Tender Answer Blueprint
- 📝 Tender Proofreading & Light Editing
- 🔍 Pre-Tender Readiness Audit
- 📁 Tender Document Review
🚀 Need a Bid Writing Quote?
If you’re exploring support for an upcoming tender or framework, request a quick, no-obligation quote. I’ll review your documents and respond with:
- A clear scope of work
- Estimated days required
- A fixed fee quote
- Any risks, considerations or quick wins
📘 Monthly Bid Support Retainers
Want predictable, specialist bid support as Procurement Act 2023 and MAT scoring bed in? My Monthly Bid Support Retainers give NHS and social care providers flexible access to live tender support, opportunity triage, bid library updates and renewal planning — at a discounted day rate.
🔍 Explore Monthly Bid Support Retainers →