The Systems Influencers Programme - project evaluation report
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Healthwatch Hackney evaluated the ‘System Influencers Programme’ which was set up to bring young individuals and healthcare professionals together to make real changes in local health and care services. It’s all about co-production - young individuals aged 16 to 25 who live, study or work in City and Hackney collaborate for 12 weeks to share their ideas, experiences and creativity. After the 12-week period, the cycle begins again, providing opportunities for new Influencers and Mentors to take part. Working side by side with professionals, these young Influencers help shape health and care services so they actually meet the needs of young people.
A total of five iterations were delivered across a two‑year period. Topics covered included sexual health, mental health, immunisation and smoking cessation. Each cycle concluded with a public showcase, where Mentors and Influencers came together to share the journey and outcomes of their projects. The showcase also gave the opportunity to celebrate their achievements. By teaming up in this way, the programme built trust, broke down barriers and helped professionals see things from a youth perspective.
The result? Services that feel more welcoming, more relevant and more effective for the young individuals who use them. Overall 71 young people were involved.