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Surrey HDRC

Our approach to
co-production

We aim to work with communities as equal partners - from setting priorities to designing, delivering and reviewing research. The Ladder of Co–production ( Ladder of co-production - TLAP) helps show how involvement can grow from basic information–sharing to true co–production.

Our goal is to operate at the upper steps, co–design and co–production, whenever possible, while being transparent about where projects sit on the ladder and how we will move up it over time.

  1. 7. Co–production

    Equal partnership from design to delivery and governance.

  2. 6. Co–design

    People help design services based on their experience.

  3. 5. Engagement

    People can shape some decisions if permitted.

  4. 4. Consultation

    Views are gathered (surveys/meetings) with limited influence.

  5. 3. Informing

    Decisions are explained to people; feedback not used.

  6. 2. Educating

    People are taught how services work; no decision–making.

  7. 1. Coercion

    People must attend but have no influence.

Our commitment to UK Standards for Public Involvement

The UK Standards for Public Involvement guide our work at HDRC Surrey, helping us improve the quality and consistency of public involvement in research. Developed by a UK-wide partnership, these standards set out what good involvement looks like, empahsising flexibility, learning, sharing, and mutual respect. They offer practical guidance for anyone striving to achieve best practice.

The six standards are:

  1. Inclusive Opportunities: Make involvement accessible and reach a wide range of people.
  2. Working Together: Value everyone’s contribution and build strong, respectful relationships.
  3. Support and Learning: Offer training and support so people feel confident to take part.
  4. Governance: Involve the public in decision-making and leadership roles
  5. Communications: Use clear, timely and jargon-free information.
  6. Impact: Show and share the difference public involvement makes.