Darlington Association on Disability

What is Participation and Co-Production?

Participation

Participation refers to children's and young people's involvement in decision-making, whatever form this may take.

The concept of participation emphasises that including children and young people should not only be a momentary act but the starting point for a meaningful exchange between children and adults.

The views expressed by children and young people can add relevant perspectives and experiences and should be considered in decision-making and developing policies and services as well as their evaluation.

Co-Production

Co-production refers to a way of working where decision-makers and disabled people and / or carers work together to make a decision or develop a service which works for everyone. Co-production is built on the principle that those who are affected by a service are best placed to help design it.

 

How does DAD support Participation and Co-Production?

DAD supports and encourages co-production and children and young people’s participation. We try to make sure that disabled people of all ages and carers are involved fully and at the earliest possible opportunity when policies or services are being developed.

DAD began as a charity in 1986 led by disabled people. We are now also a company limited by guarantee and have a Board of Trustees. As a user led organisation the majority of our Trustees are disabled people, who direct the work of DAD.

DAD supports the work of Darlington’s People’s Parliament, a self-advocacy group for people with learning impairments and / or Autism and the work of Darlington Parent Carer Forum, Together for Better.