Collaborative methods to co-produce a social prescribing logic model

Abstract Background Logic models are useful tools for evaluating complex interventions, but methods for collaboratively developing them with key stakeholders are rarely reported. We describe innovative methods used to co-produce a logic model for Creative Minds , an NHS-based charity supporting community creative activities for mental health service users. Methods We held three online consensus meetings with 18 stakeholders including Creative Minds staff and community partners. An initial logic model draft was iteratively refined through real-time collaborative editing during meetings. Additional feedback was gathered via a conference poster. Researchers reviewed and synthesised inputs after each stage. Results Stakeholders readily engaged with the process, expanding and refining the initial logic model in real time through live amendments. Key challenges included capturing mechanisms and linkages and managing differing stakeholder perspectives. The resulting logic model provides a comprehensive representation of the Creative Minds approach ready for field testing. Conclusions Our collaborative online approach enabled meaningful stakeholder involvement in the development of a complex intervention logic model. This contributes to expanding methodologies for co-producing logic models and evaluating social prescribing interventions. Further research is needed to refine methods for capturing causal mechanisms in logic model co-production. The co-produced logic model will support the implementation and evaluation of creative approaches in NHS mental health services.