GICS host Co-Creating for Improvement workshop
The workshop provided an interactive opportunity to build skills and knowledge in 'co-approaches'
Working Together to Strengthen Collaborative Improvement in Cancer Care
GICS hosted 35 health professionals from across the Grampians region, and the wider VICS network, coming together for a Co-Creating for Improvement Workshop. The event held on Wednesday 12 August 2026, explored how meaningful partnerships can help shape and improve cancer care services for our communities.
Facilitated by Health Voices Victoria, the workshop brought together participants with diverse experiences and perspectives to learn, share ideas and build a greater understanding of co-production and co-approaches in cancer care.
Throughout the day, attendees explored the spectrum of co-approaches and how they can provide practical methods for meaningful participation with those with lived experience. Through interactive activities and group discussions, participants examined the co-approach lens and how it can lead to more effective, person-centred care and better health outcomes.
The workshop also provided an opportunity to map and identify where co-approaches are currently used and to share insights and practical strategies for embedding lived experience into service design, strengthening shared decision-making, and creating environments where all voices are valued and heard.
A key theme throughout the day was the importance of building strong relationships and fostering a culture of collaboration. By bringing together people from different sectors, organisations and backgrounds, the workshop created space for open dialogue, peer learning and the exchange of ideas that can support future service improvement initiatives across the state.
The enthusiasm and engagement demonstrated by attendees highlighted a shared commitment to ensuring that those with lived cancer experience remain at the centre of our service planning and delivery. Participants left with new insights, practical tools and a stronger understanding of how co-creation approaches can support meaningful and sustainable improvements in cancer care, with attendees saying:
“Great opportunity to come together to share ideas and a common approach”
“Inclusive, warm facilitators set positive and safe space for participants to contribute”
“I feel much better prepared in engaging consumers. Particularly at an earlier stage”
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended and to the team from Health Voices Victoria for facilitating a highly engaging and thought-provoking day.
Together, we are building stronger partnerships and creating opportunities to improve experiences and outcomes for people affected by cancer, now and into the future.
See images of the workshop and attendees below.
