Collaborative Research
The Mind Axis guide to
Co-Design
Most wellbeing programs fail because they are designed for communities, not with them.
In Mind Axis we asked ourselves a fundamental question: Are we solving the right problems? To find the answer, we moved beyond traditional consultation and embraced Co-Design.
We handed the pen to young adults in Hounslow. We asked them to define the questions, not just answer them. The result was The Third Place, a hybrid wellbeing service that looks nothing like a clinic and everything like a community.
This 3-part video series opens up our playbook. We share the methodology we used, the solution we built, and the hard lessons we learned about shifting power.
Episode 1: What is co-design to us?
In this video, we describe what co-design is and why it is important to use it.
Episode 2: The third place: our case study
See how we built The Third Place, a hybrid model that combines culturally rooted community space with digital clinical tools.
Episode 3: Three conditions for co-design to work well
Co-design isn't just about what happens in the room; it's about the work you do before you even open the doors.
Co-Creation, Co-Design,
& Co-production
We develop our programmes with the communities we serve, ensuring they are shaped by the voices of historically marginalised and underserved groups. By working closely with participants, facilitators, and community leaders, we create tailored, culturally responsive interventions that address the unique challenges and needs of those we serve. Our collaborative process is iterative and grounded in deep listening.
Co-Designing The THIRD PLACE (Formerly know as The Teashop+)
In partnership with members of the community, we co-designed this mindfulness and mental wellbeing programme for ethnic minority women.
Co-creating The barriobloom mural
We co-created a mural with young people in Bogotá, Colombia, to reduce stigma of substance use, using art as a tool for empowerment.