Telford & Wrekin Council is asking adults across the borough to register their interest in volunteering opportunities that will directly shape the future of Adult Social Care services. A borough-wide campaign launched on 3 July seeks new members for the Making It Real Board, a group co-chaired by someone with lived experience alongside the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and the Director of Adult Social Services. No prior involvement with social care is needed to take part.
Formal recruitment for the 2026/2027 board opens in Autumn 2026, but the council is holding a public information session beforehand so residents can learn what the role involves. Board members meet quarterly to help shape policy, influence local services, and co-design improvements. Cllr Paul Watling, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Systems, said co-production was not simply a phrase but the way the council genuinely wanted to work. “The people who use our services, their families and our wider community have knowledge and experience that we simply cannot replicate,” he said.
The Making It Real Board has operated since January 2018, working alongside council leaders to recommend how different service areas can develop. A Co-production Framework covering 2023 to 2025 already sets out how the council partners with residents, carers, and community groups. Board members test the accessibility of public documents, contribute to website navigation tools, and have helped produce the Adult Social Care Charter. Full training and ongoing support come from the council’s Co-Production Team.
Sarah Roberts, who joined the board in 2019 after her social worker suggested it, now serves as Co-Chair. She said she took the opportunity because the board wanted to work with people who have lived experience to ensure they are heard and valued. Residents can register interest by visiting www.telford.gov.uk/ascgetinvolved or by emailing [email protected] to find out more.
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