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

What is this method?

"I like, I wish, What if?" is a friendly, structured way to gather feedback and ideas. It breaks down thoughts into three simple categories that help people express their experiences and hopes for the future.

• 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?

• Simple to understand
• Works for different communication styles
• Can be adapted for different ages and needs
• Balances positive feedback with suggestions
• Encourages creative thinking
• Can be done individually or in groups

When to use it

This method works well for

• 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)
• A printed template as an alternative
• Marker pens
• Visual supports
• Communication aids as needed
• Fidget toys and comfort items
• A quiet space option

Session structure

1. Setting up (15 minutes)

• Create a comfortable, accessible space
• Display clear visual labels
• Set up a 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 to 45 minutes)

For each category

• Allow thinking time
• Offer writing, drawing or 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 an 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

Remember, every voice matters in making services better for everyone.