The Do With Charter
The Change We Need
Government, public services and the NHS are in crisis as demand rises and resources shrink. Yet individuals, families and communities demonstrate every day that they have the knowledge, strengths and commitment to improve their own lives.
We believe lasting change depends on unlocking that potential. That means moving from a system that does things to people towards one that does things with people - making nothing about us, without us the guiding principle for government and public services.
The Principles We Stand By
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See people and communities as equal partners
Everyone brings valuable knowledge, skills and lived experience. Better decisions are made and services improve when communities, professionals and elected representatives work together as equals.
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Share power and resources
Conventional consultation no longer works for communities. They demand real influence over the decisions that affect them and a chance to play a central role in delivering the services on which they rely. That means meaningful involvement in decision-making, reducing hierarchy, ending discrimination and building trust.
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Build strengths not dependence
Strong communities can prevent illness, crisis and poverty before they occur, saving public money and improving lives. Government and public services should invest far more in community capability, local assets, and giving people the capacity, freedom and resources to improve their own neighbourhoods and networks.
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Collaborate for impact
Communities, voluntary organisations, the NHS, councils and other public services achieve more together than apart. Funding and leadership should reward genuine collaboration and strengthen the role of individuals, families and communities in shaping the holistic care they demand.
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Measure what really matters
Success should be judged not by centrally imposed targets but by healthier lives, reduced inequalities, stronger communities and people's ability to shape the services and places that affect them. Ultimately, local people should decide whether public services are meeting local needs.
The Movement We Are Building
Real change will not happen if we wait for others to act.
It depends on patients, carers, residents, volunteers, frontline staff, leaders, elected representatives and community organisations working together to create a different future.
We call on everyone who shares this vision to raise their voice, support one another, demand change from those in power, and take practical action to transform the way government and public services work here and now.
If you believe government and public services should do with people rather than do to people, add your name to this Charter and help build the movement. Together we can make Do With a reality.
