Table 2 Practical learnings
Domain | Learnings |
|---|---|
Preparation | A vision statement to set up expectations for the group and establish what consumer involvement will look like |
A clear agenda for each meeting, to be discussed at the end of the preceding meeting | |
Documents to be available for an appropriate amount of time pre-meeting, so that everyone has the opportunity to prepare | |
Allow for in person and virtual meetings for enhanced accessibility | |
Meeting structure | Regular meetings that run to time |
Consistent communication around the project or any team updates | |
Clearly identified host/facilitator of the meeting | |
Team culture | Expectation setting at the beginning of the project and revisited throughout |
Commitment to addressing existing power dynamics so that the group can act as an “equal team”, where everyone feels respected and able to contribute | |
Having experienced consumers in the group to help guide the consumer interactions | |
Institutional support, such as having a Consumer Manager and consumer co-ordinator and remunerating consumers for their involvement, to ensure that consumers are appropriately supported throughout their involvement |