Supporting a green and just transition for NHS Scotland

A Community of Practice (CoP) is a forum for sharing learning among a wide and diverse range of people that connect with each other on an area of common interest or expertise. A CoP can be described as a group of people who interact, learn together, build relationships, and in the process, develop an identity and mutual commitment. A key aspect that brings members together is the value of the shared interest, aims and learning outcomes generated from their exchange with each other.

The Design HOPES CoP represents one community and two Working Groups: Green Futures Storytelling and Design Policy Interface. The Working Groups share a consistent central concept: to act as a platform which supports green transition initiatives in the health and social care ecosystem, offering a space to share and amplify narratives of progress. The goal is to highlight solutions, and the individuals or teams behind them, providing inspiration and actionable insights for the community. As a community, we can build case studies focused on change and success and explore the strategies to achieve them.

Why get involved

Addressing sustainability challenges in healthcare requires collaborative efforts and shared expertise among practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and community members. The Design HOPES Community of Practice (CoP) provides a platform for members to engage, share knowledge, and develop strategies to promote sustainability in healthcare. The CoP encourages members to share insights and knowledge and support progress within the broad remit of design research for the NHS green transition. Design HOPES CoP members typically have an interest or curiosity in design-led innovation and change.

The three main aims of the Design HOPES CoP are to:

  •  Create a vibrant and inclusive community that supports mutual learning, and shared purpose across diverse stakeholders;
  •  Develop, document and disseminate narratives, innovative ideas, best practices, and collective actions for a just and green transition;
  •  Engage with and influence policy, provide design-led recommendations and showcase possible solutions.

The benefits of joining a Community of Practice could include:

Knowledge Sharing and Learning

Continuous Learning: Members of a CoP can learn from each other’s experiences, best practices, and mistakes, which fosters continuous learning.

Access to Expertise: Being part of a CoP gives you direct access to the collective expertise of the group, which can accelerate your own development.

Networking and Collaboration

Building Relationships: A CoP provides a platform to connect with like-minded professionals, leading to potential collaborations and partnerships.

Broader Perspectives: Engaging with diverse members from different backgrounds and experiences broadens your perspective and enhances problem-solving skills.

Professional Development

Skill Enhancement: CoPs often focus on developing specific skills or knowledge areas, helping members to stay current in their field.

Career Growth: Participation in a CoP can lead to new opportunities, including mentorship and leadership roles within the community.

Increased Innovation and Creativity

Idea Generation: The collective brainstorming and sharing of ideas within a CoP often lead to innovative solutions that might not have emerged individually.

Cross-Pollination of Ideas: Exposure to different ideas and approaches can inspire creativity and help in solving complex problems.

Support and Motivation

Peer Support: A CoP offers a supportive environment where members can share challenges, seek advice, and gain encouragement.

Motivation and Accountability: Being part of a group with shared goals can increase motivation and help keep members accountable for their personal and professional growth.

Sense of Belonging

Community and Identity: Being part of a CoP can provide a sense of belonging and identity, as members share a common purpose and passion.

Shared Goals and Values: Members often share similar goals and values, which reinforces their commitment to the community and its objectives.

How to get involved

If you would like to engage with the Design HOPES Community of Practice:

You can use this form for any general queries https://forms.office.com/e/nULbCF63Gx

If you would like to know more about the Design HOPES project, please email designhopes@strath.ac.uk

A collaborative project, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, as part of the Future Observatory programme, and led by the University of Strathclyde and University of Dundee (DJCAD), with Heriot-Watt University, Abertay University, and the University of Edinburgh, NHS Scotland, industry partners, and public sector stakeholders.