The Coaching Through Co-Production in Blackpool project was designed to inspire, empower, and support young people in enhancing their emotional wellbeing and building valuable social and employability skills. At the heart of the project, participants co-produced an educational booklet based on their personal experiences with mental health.

Building on the success of a previous NHS co-production project, the initiative was facilitated by industry professionals in partnership with Blackpool Council’s adult social services and co-production team.

Targeted at young people aged 16-25 with learning difficulties, disabilities, or autism, each session focused on a specific component of the  social and emotional framework, such as self-awareness and self-management. Activities, discussions, and the booklet itself centred on these themes, providing a foundation for young people to explore how their experiences have shaped their self-perception, emotions, and behaviours.

As the weeks progressed, participants grew in confidence and collaboratively developed an ‘Our Rules to Life’ booklet, a resource created by young people for young people. Using their unique insights from living with learning disabilities, the participants aimed to help other young people navigate life’s challenges. They reflected on how, with experience and perspective, many of their past difficulties stemmed from negative self-talk and self-doubt.

Objectives

• Equip young participants with leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Create meaningful, youth-driven resources that support mental health awareness.
• Foster a sense of community and ownership among young people in tackling mental health challenges.

Programme Structure

The project was structured into a series of workshops where participants explored topics like emotional regulation, resilience, and creative expression. Each session included guidance on planning, teamwork, and public speaking, allowing participants to develop practical skills while shaping initiatives that reflect their unique insights and experiences.

Outcomes

• Increased Confidence & Skill Development: Participants reported improved confidence in expressing ideas, enhanced problem-solving skills, and greater self-awareness.
• Youth-Driven Resources: The project resulted in co-produced educational booklet that reflect the perspectives and needs of Blackpool’s youth when it comes to mental health.
• Positive Community Impact: By involving youth directly in creating mental health initiatives, the program promoted a proactive approach to mental health in Blackpool. The young people engaged members of the public through a series of outreach sessions.

Key Learnings

Engaging young people in co-production can significantly improve the relevance and effectiveness of mental health resources. Providing youth with ownership and a platform to voice their needs has a lasting impact on both individual development and community well-being.

The ‘Our Rules to Life’ booklet as seen above, was designed by a local illustrator, Josh Ford.

This project highlights the potential for co-produced models to shape mental health initiatives in ways that are inclusive and impactful. It offers a replicable approach to youth engagement, showing that when young people are part of the solution, they become powerful advocates for positive change.