Bringing together health and education with lived experience to co-produce a new pathway of assessment and support for Developmental Coordination Disorder/ Specific Developmental Disorder of Motor Function: a Double Diamond approach

Background: Research has shown high levels of under-diagnosis of Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). National and international research has shown that pathways for assessment and support for DCD are convoluted, difficult to navigate and are ultimately not fit for purpose. This research therefore aimed to bring together all stakeholders involved in supporting children with motor skill difficulties to co-produce a new pathway. Methods: 13 participants attended a half day workshop (January 2025) spanning lived experience (adult and young person), paediatrics, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, school leadership, special educational needs teaching, school nursing, physical needs specialists and reducing inequalities management. A Double Diamond approach was implemented in which participants were taken through four phases cycling through divergence (big picture thinking) and convergence (consensus). Discussions were recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. After the workshop, participants completed an online questionnaire to understand (i) acceptability; (ii) potential barriers; and (iii) modifications. Results: consensus was reached on a new pathway for identifying and supporting children with DCD, and those with sensorimotor difficulties that do not meet thresholds for diagnosis. Participants highlighted the need for mobilisation of key leaders in health and education as well as the development of evidence-based training to facilitate a new pathway. The new pathway includes two tiers – universal provision (school and community) and targeted provision for children that would benefit from specialist clinical support and diagnosis. Conclusion: A Double Diamond approach to co-production was effective for re-designing the DCD pathway. More research is needed to understand the feasibility and efficacy of the new pathway in practice.