The Citizen’s Panel was established to ensure that individuals living in supported accommodation have a meaningful voice in shaping the services they receive. Its purpose is to promote co-production, enabling people to share their experiences, influence change, and highlight good practice.

The Citizen’s Panel was initially established as part of the pre-tender process (2020), in line with commissioning requirements at that time. From the outset, this was a co-produced approach, with citizens working alongside the Commissioning Team, Operational Manager, and provider representatives. During the pre-tender stage, citizens were actively involved throughout—contributing to the service specification, participating in interviews, meeting with providers, and shaping key elements of the service by engaging with and representing the views of their peers. Over time, the group has grown and evolved, with increasing participation reflecting its value and impact.

The panel currently has five core members, supported to explore key issues affecting their lives and to design accessible questionnaires that are shared with the wider supported living community. Around 35 individuals now contribute to panel discussions, helping to inform decision-making and service development.

A recent highlight includes work around Care and Support Plans, where individuals identified the need for more accessible information. This has led to the development of an Easy Read version, co-produced with volunteers and social workers, empowering people to better understand, engage in, and take ownership of their support.