To achieve fair exchange, we must first remove barriers to participation. This includes making sure meetings are held at accessible times and locations, providing support such as transport or childcare where needed, and using clear, jargon-free language. It also means recognising and addressing power imbalances so that people feel safe, respected and confident in sharing their views. 

Fair exchange also involves valuing all forms of expertise. Lived experience is just as important as academic or professional knowledge. People should be paid fairly for their time, expertise and insights, not simply thanked or offered token gestures. As an organisation, we are committed to paying at least the Real Living Wage and ensuring that people are appropriately remunerated for the value they bring. This demonstrates that their contribution is not only welcome but essential. 

As a supporter of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, we are committed to promoting good employment practices, including fair pay, secure work, employee wellbeing, engagement and opportunities for development. These principles underpin our approach to co-production and co-design and reinforce our commitment to fairness, inclusion and respect. 

In practice, fair exchange may include co-designing services with community members, offering training and support to enable meaningful participation, and ensuring that feedback is acted upon and shared transparently. It is about building trust and long-term relationships rather than conducting one-off consultations. By embedding fair exchange in everything we do, we can create more inclusive, effective and equitable services and systems.