A three-way partnership: reflections and lessons from co-producing social care research with practitioners, researchers and the public.

backgroundCo-production in social care research seeks to bridge the gap between academic inquiry, frontline practice, and lived experience by actively involving practitioners, researchers, and public members as equal partners throughout the research process. However, sustaining and balancing this three-way partnership remains challenging in practice. CASE STUDY: This paper reflects on the ‘Better Care Moves’ project, a co-produced study involving social care practitioners and managers, academic researchers, and public members with lived experience of life and care transitions, such as hospital discharges to care homes and moves into and between social care settings. The team shared reflections on their experiences of co-production in this project through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, guided by the principles of co-production. Key lessons were identified under two themes: (1) including, valuing, and learning from all perspectives, and (2) power sharing and relationship building. The co-production approach in this project enabled recognition of diverse expertise - practice knowledge, lived experience, and research skills - while fostering mutual learning and skill development. Challenges included limited diversity among public members, demands on practitioner time, and navigating power differentials. Team members highlighted the importance of clarity in roles, mutual respect, and ensuring all voices were heard and valued. The project produced practical resources and strengthened cross-sector networks, demonstrating the tangible benefits of co-production for research and practice.

conclusionCo-production is an evolving, relational process that requires sustained commitment to inclusion, valuing diverse contributions, and sharing power. While roles differ, equality of respect is essential. Future co-production should strengthen diversity, support consistent participation, and embed transparent decision-making. The ‘Better Care Moves’ project illustrates how co-production can generate accessible knowledge and practical tools for both research and practice to the benefit of those who experience social care services.