The public service reform agenda cannot succeed simply by the top down imposition of centralised targets or more market based choice. In our latest report "Co-production: the modernisation of public services by staff and users" we discuss the formation of a new public service reform paradigm based on the principle and practice of co-production.

Co-production is based on the insight that workers know how to deliver at the sharp end of service provision and the public cannot be passive recipients of services but have a decisive role to play in their co-creation. It is a deeply practical method for improving services. It is about the recognition of mutual interests, co-operation and participation and has the strong moral purpose of building communities and social networks, based on the practice of "what works"!

Co-production is the new buzz word in politics - after all who could disagree on the value of everyone being involved in the creation of public services. But in this furore there is a danger that the reality, the deeply practical nature of co-production will be lost. We must also recognise that this concept is not new; it is something many people do every day, but often despite rather than because of the structures they are working within. Right now workers have to battle up stream to be innovative, as the report highlights through a number of case studies co-production, when implemented, improves service provision and empower both staff and users. But to impalement it effectively we need a new reform paradigm.

This new paradigm cannot be the centralised state we saw before, or the market state, instead we need a democratic state, based on the talents, assets and abilities of all. Co-production can be a way forward it can be a method of managing the public service paradox, which we discuss in the report. Co-production can be part of the process towards the enabling and democratic state we need.