Transforming Public Services for an Innovation Economy with Bottom-up Participation

The key insight is on transforming public services, like public transport, housing, and school meals, into a part of an innovation economy that values people and the planet. This transformation involves moving away from cost reduction strategies and towards ambition and care. Additionally, it highlights the importance of bottom-up participation where local communities are involved in decision-making processes. An example from Camden Council demonstrates how involving residents in co-creation processes can lead to more meaningful and dignified solutions, such as transitioning from food banks to food cooperatives. Ultimately, empowering the beneficiaries to have agency in designing and governing systems leads to positive outcomes and changes in attitudes and expressions.