Reading Well: redefining the role of the expert through co-production

Parallel Session

The Reading Agency has successfully pioneered a co-production method to devise and steer its Reading Well Books on Prescription scheme. The programme recommends specially selected books to help people to understand and manage their health, navigate difficult life experiences and share those experiences with others.

The recommended books, which include fiction and memoirs as well as factual self-help, are universally available in the trusted community space of the public library where they can be borrowed free of charge. The programme is endorsed by health experts and is co-produced with people who have experience of the conditions covered in the texts.

Co-production has been defined as “A relationship where professionals and citizens share power to plan and deliver support together, recognising that both have vital contributions to make in order to improve quality of life for people and communities.”[1].

This workshop will explore how those with lived experience can be equal partners in the creation of initiatives from which they benefit, and how we as organisations can empower the public to create their own truth.

Speakers:

  • Debbie Hicks, Creative Director, The Reading Agency
  • Katie Clarke-Day, Coalition for Collaborative Care
  • Mandy Rudczenko, Coalition for Collaborative Care

This session is being delivered by Knowledge Quarter partner The Reading Agency

[1] https://coproductionnetwork.com/page/national-coproduction-critical-friends-briefings

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