The Problem with Standardised Services

Many public services are designed with a broad user base in mind, aiming for efficiency and simplicity. However, this often means that individuals and groups with complex or unique needs are left without adequate support. Health inequalities persist, marginalised communities struggle to access essential services, and systems fail to adapt to evolving social and demographic landscapes.

A New Approach: Evidence-Driven and People-Centred

At Dochas, we believe that meaningful service design starts with understanding the lived experiences of the people it serves. We integrate qualitative insights with quantitative data to build a full picture of the gaps in existing services. This includes:

• Engaging with communities to understand their specific needs and barriers.
• Overlaying data with real-world experiences, ensuring policies and strategies are informed by those they affect.
• Developing adaptive models that evolve with changing social and economic conditions.

Real Impact: Case Studies in Redesigning Services

Our work has already led to meaningful improvements across a range of sectors:

• Palliative and End-of-Life Care – We worked with healthcare providers to improve accessibility for underserved communities, ensuring culturally sensitive support for diverse populations.
• Technology in Health & Social Care – We explored how digital solutions can enhance patient access to critical services, especially for those facing geographical and mobility barriers.
• Women’s Experiences in Probation Services – By incorporating service user feedback, we helped reshape rehabilitation support to be more responsive to the specific needs of women in the justice system.

The Power of Collaboration

Addressing service gaps requires working across disciplines and agencies. We facilitate multi-sector partnerships, bringing together policymakers, service providers, and community representatives to develop holistic solutions that drive real change.

What’s Next?

As society evolves, so too must the services that support it. Dochas remains committed to challenging outdated systems and pioneering innovative approaches that put people at the heart of service design.

If you’re looking to redesign services for a more equitable future, get in touch with us today.