Co-design in policy development: Leveraging opportunities, addressing challenges, and proposing solutions for inclusive governance - Lessons from England

This Special Issue of five empirical papers delves into the realm of co-design, a participatory approach to policy development similar to co-production that aims to engage diverse stakeholders in decision-making processes inspired by design thinking. The papers examine the inherent opportunities, challenges, and potential solutions associated with adopting co-design in policy formulation. Drawing upon literature and real-world experiences, the authors explore the potential benefits of inclusive policy development, such as improved policy quality, enhanced acceptance, and innovative solutions. They also confront the complexities of time constraints, power imbalances, conflict resolution, and the translation of diverse inputs into actionable policies. In response to these challenges, the articles put forth practical strategies, including early engagement, clear communication, skilled facilitation, and the utilisation of technology, to foster effective co-design processes and encourage more inclusive governance.