aes18 International Evaluation Conference

Sue Leahy (ARTD Consultants)

Traditional consultation approaches typically start with a service or program model in mind and ask for people's views, often ending up with a solution largely reproducing the status quo. Co-design presents a valuable method for disrupting traditional power dynamics. Using creative techniques co-design processes help to build a safe space in which participants can explore difference and find commonalities that cross normal boundaries and relationships. 

This paper describes the steps in a successful co-design process to develop a new maternal and child health (MCH) service model to ensure Aboriginal families have access to culturally responsive and high quality MCH services. Twenty key stakeholders with expertise in working with Aboriginal families or delivering MCH services were drawn from across the state—half Aboriginal and half non-Aboriginal. They participated in a three-phase co-design process that explored in depth the needs and experiences of Aboriginal families, generated new service ideas to respond to these needs and then refined service features for implementation. Through a series of workshops stakeholders produced a flexible and tailored service model firmly centred on the needs of Aboriginal families.