We’re proud to announce that co‑researchers from CANDDID’s Unlocking Excellence project have been awarded the Co‑Production Award at the STAR Awards, held in partnership with Autism Together and Wirral Mencap.

IMG_4094.jpegSTAR AWARDS.pngThe award recognises their outstanding contribution to the National Institute for Health & Care Research (NIHR)‑funded study. As co‑researchers, the team shaped the direction of the project from the very beginning, influencing the research design, developing interview approaches, and working alongside the academic team to interpret the data.

Project Manager Caroline Mogan praised the group’s impact, saying: “This recognition truly belongs to our co‑researchers. From the beginning, they have embraced co-production, helping us shape ideas and challenging us to think differently.

“They’ve brought such thoughtfulness and enthusiasm to every stage, and watching their confidence grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of this project.”

This achievement highlights the value of genuine co‑production and the difference it makes when lived experience leads the way.

CANDDID, hosted by Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, is the Centre for Autism, Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Intellectual Disability which brings together, education, training and research in the fields of neurodevelopmental disorders and intellectual disabilities.