Co-producing the principles

Your organisation or community group

1. Access

1.1 Awareness of services

• I can easily find clear information about what community services exist, who they are for, and how to access them.
• I am told what to expect and how long things might take.

1.2 Quicker access

• I am seen quickly when I need help, without long waits that worsen my condition.

1.3 Availability & ability to contact services

• I can contact services easily using the method that suits me.
• I reach the right person quickly, without being passed around.

1.4 Accessible communication

• I receive communication in a way that works for me — including plain English, interpreters, BSL, large print, and translated materials — as per the Accessible Information Standard.
• I can update my communication needs once, and all services act on them.
• I feel understood, respected and included in conversations about my care.

1.5 Accessible digital options

• I can use a simple digital solution that works alongside non‑digital options.
• I have help to get online if I need it.
• I can see my referrals, appointments and updates in one place.

1.6 Self‑referral

• I can refer myself to a greater number of services without unnecessary barriers.
• I know clearly which services accept self‑referral and how to do it.

2. Provision

2.1 Coordinated care

• I experience joined‑up care where professionals talk to each other and to me.
• I only tell my story once, and my records follow me.
• I have a clear point of contact who helps coordinate my care.

2.2 Support for family carers

• I receive timely, proactive information and support as a carer.
• I am treated as a partner in care, with clear boundaries and realistic expectations.

2.3 Staff approach and training

• I am treated with dignity, kindness and understanding.
• I am supported by staff who are trained in accessible communication and inclusive practice and who understand my culture, identity and needs.

2.4 More staff / capacity

• I access the right professional at the right time with the right skills.
• I am not left without help because services are overstretched.

2.5 All age, CYP to adult transition & holistic services

• I see services in places I already use, like schools or community hubs.

• I have holistic help, not just crisis support.
• I receive support that continues smoothly as I move from children’s to adult services.

3. Location

3.1 Local accessible settings

• I can access services close to where I live in community venues, with good transport and parking.
• I don’t have to travel long distances for routine appointments.

3.2 Home visits

• I can get a home visit when I need one, at a time that works for me.
• I know who is coming and when, and they can contact me reliably.

3.3 Hubs

• I can access multiple services in one place, reducing the number of trips I need to make.
• I can drop in or get linked appointments that make my care feel joined‑up.

3.4 Community settings (not GP or hospital)

• I can receive tests, diagnostics, therapies and support in community venues.
• I can benefit from mobile or outreach options if I live in a rural area.

4. Treatment and Care

4.1 Preventative advice, tests and check‑ups

• I receive early advice and support to stay well and prevent deterioration.
• I can access prevention services and information in my community.

4.2 Follow‑ups

• I receive planned follow‑ups — I am not left to chase the system.
• I have a named contact who checks in on me at key points, where required.

4.3 Tools for independence at home

• I can easily get the equipment, aids and adaptations and support I need to stay independent.

4.4 Social prescribing and community groups

• I can access local groups and activities easily that support my wellbeing.
• I can be referred to a social prescriber who helps me navigate community support.

4.5 Long‑term care planning

• I have regular reviews that help me stay well and independent over time.
• I am involved in planning my future care, including end‑of‑life choices if required.

5. Whole System

5.1 System relationships

• I experience seamless care across GP, hospital, community and voluntary services.
• I have 'one front door' to access multiple services.
• I am not left coordinating everything myself.

5.2 Referral routes

• I understand how referrals work and trust what happens next.
• I can track my referral and receive updates without chasing.

5.3 Hospital to community transition

• I have a smooth and safe transition home after hospital.
• I am contacted quickly by community services after discharge.
• My preferences for recovery and care at home are respected.

You made it to the end, THANK YOU! Please use this space to add any final or additional comments you may have about the development of this work for us to think about before the next meeting.