Beth Stepan, the current Coproduction Coordinator at Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service (LMWS) has written the following blog on how you can get involved in coproduction at LMWS: 

The image explains what National Coproduction Week, the benefits of Coproduction and the opportunities to get
involved, which is also written in text underneath.

Why should you be involved in coproduction work?

  • Coproduction increases the capacity and impact of public services.
  • Service users AND staff report reduced social isolation and gain a stronger sense of identity and purpose.
  • Our LMWS Coproduction project teams are fun and friendly – and sometimes we have snacks!
  • There are loads more benefits to coproduction – take a look at this report from Mind if you’d like to read more: Co-production in mental health – why everybody wins

If you like the sound of this, here are some of the ways you can be involved in coproduction within Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service (LMWS):

Leeds LGBT+ Minds started in October 2020 when a service user was inspired to be involved in improving LGBTQIA+ mental health in Leeds. Since then, we have:

  • Connected with other services across the city
  • Run a 6-day Community Wellbeing Festival
  • Influenced Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service on LGBTQIA+ inclusive data collection
  • Raised awareness of wider issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community

We meet fortnightly on a Friday afternoon. This group is open to anyone who identifies as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

LS9 Lives is focused on improving wellbeing for people living in the LS9 postcode area. Currently, we are working towards:

  • Building strong and reciprocal relationships within the community
  • Reducing stigma around mental health
  • Finding out about residents’ experiences with LMWS

We meet fortnightly on a Tuesday evening. This group is open to anyone that lives in, works in or has link to the LS9 postcode area.

We are also planning to set up a “Consultation Group” soon. This will give service users the chance to feedback to LMWS on specific issues and have their voices heard.

To find out more about any of these projects and how you can get involved, please email: lmwscoproduction@touchstonesupport.org.uk