Overview of activity

Are you passionate about and interested in all aspects of adult social care and how it develops? 

We are inviting expressions of interest from adults with lived experience to join our Making It Real Board. 

This is to ensure that those who have lived experience are heard, valued, and can inform, question and co-design improvements, developments and practice across adult social care. 

The Making It Real Board meets quarterly for two hours with the Director of Adult Social Services (DASS) and the meetings are co-chaired by a person with lived experience and the Cabinet Member with social care responsibility to have discussions and share knowledge and experiences about adult social care, including the opportunity to:

  • ensure service leads are in touch with the reality of accessing adult social care and care and support services

  • bring and share powerful stories and experiences

  • network in a positive way with other people who have an interest in social care

  • participate in a range of co-production and co-design activities.

Useful information

Skills and experience required

No formal experience or in-depth knowledge of adult social care is needed.  

Successful applicants will benefit from a programme of training. We’re committed to supporting our Making It Real board members to grow in confidence and skills, ensuring you feel fully equipped to thrive in the voluntary role and contribute confidently and meaningfully.

Who can get involved?

We are inviting expressions of interest from adults aged 18 and over from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences including people who currently access adult social care or other care and support services, and adults who do not presently use support services and unpaid carers whether a family member or friend. 

Support available

Support is available from our co‑production team to help you take part confidently and comfortably.

We recognise that everyone’s needs are different, so please let us know on your expression of interest form the support that would enable you to get involved.

Whether you require practical adjustments, additional guidance, or tailored assistance such as an BSL interpreter and we will work with you to ensure you can participate fully.

Expected start / end date

We are looking for expressions of interest from people across adult social care and our communities to ensure a balance of views, perspectives and experiences.

Our next recruitment process will take place in summer / autumn 2026.

How to get involved

Please complete the expression of interest form and we will contact you regarding next steps. 

Please note that not everyone who expresses interest will not become a member of the Making It Real Board. We strive to ensure that there is a balanced representation from across adult social care and protected characteristics.

Complete the getting involved in the Making It Real Board expression of interest form