I like, I wish, What if...?

What is this method?

• I Like: What's working well right now

• I Wish: What could be better

• What If: Creative ideas for the future

Why use this method?

When to use it

• Service evaluations

• School transport reviews

• Short breaks service design

• Education Health and Care Plan processes

• Transition planning

• Healthcare pathway reviews

• Leisure activity planning

• Support group development

• Parent carer forum consultations

• Local Offer website improvements

Running a session

What you'll need

• Large paper or boards for each category

• Sticky notes (different colours for each category)

• Alternative is to print out a template

  https://www.canva.com/design/DAGWD26rG4k/wGB8CIPuf94pVN9NZj_43w/view?utm_content=DAGWD26rG4k&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink&mode=preview

• Marker pens

• Visual supports

• Communication aids as needed

• Fidget toys/comfort items

• Quiet space option

Session structure

1. Setting up (15 minutes)

• Create comfortable, accessible space

• Display clear visual labels

• Set up quiet area

• Prepare communication supports

• Arrange materials within reach

2. Introduction (10 minutes)

• Explain each category using examples

• Show how to share ideas

• Set ground rules together

• Explain how feedback will be used

• Answer questions

3. Gathering views (30-45 minutes)

• Allow thinking time

• Offer writing/drawing/typing options

• Support with scribing if needed

• Use prompt questions

• Take regular breaks

4. Sharing ideas (20 minutes)

• Optional sharing of thoughts

• Group similar ideas

• Celebrate contributions

• Plan next steps

• Explain what happens next

Making it accessible

For young people

• Use symbols or pictures

• Offer drawing options

• Include movement breaks

• Use special interests

• Keep sessions short

• Provide choices for sharing

For parent carers

• Offer flexible timing

• Provide childcare if possible

• Give pre-session information

• Allow online contributions

• Offer 1:1 options

• Follow up opportunities

Example questions for different topics

Transport review

I like:

• "Which parts of your journey work well?"

• "Who helps make your journey better?"

• "What makes you feel safe?"

I wish:

• "What would make your journey easier?"

• "What would help at pick-up times?"

• "What would make you more comfortable?"

What if:

• "What if you could design the perfect transport?"

• "What if you could change one thing?"

• "What if you could help other children feel better about transport?"

Short breaks service

I like:

• "What activities do you enjoy most?"

• "Who makes your breaks fun?"

• "What's the best part of your break?"

I wish:

• "What other activities would you like?"

• "What would make breaks better?"

• "What would help your family more?"

What if:

• "What if you could create a new activity?"

• "What if you could go anywhere?"

• "What if you could help plan activities?"

Education support

I like:

• "What helps you learn best?"

• "Who supports you well?"

• "What makes a good day at school?"

I wish:

• "What would help you learn better?"

• "What would make school easier?"

• "What support would help more?"

What if:

• "What if you could design your perfect classroom?"

• "What if you could teach others about your needs?"

• "What if you could change anything about school?"

Recording and using feedback

During the session

• Take photos of boards (with permission)

• Note key themes

• Record quotes (anonymously)

• Capture nonverbal feedback

• Note urgent issues

After the session

• Create accessible summary

• Share findings appropriately

• Show how views influence changes

• Plan follow-up sessions

• Celebrate impacts

Success tips

• Always offer multiple ways to contribute

• Value all forms of communication

• Allow plenty of time

• Keep it positive and solution-focused

• Show how feedback makes a difference

• Make it fun and engaging

• Be flexible and responsive

• Follow up and keep participants informed