Our Framework
Roots to Bloom™
A four-stage framework for transformative, experience-led change — designed to meet organisations where they are and grow with them.
A framework rooted in reality
Roots to Bloom™ was developed from years of working alongside organisations at different stages of their journey with lived experience. Some are just beginning to ask the right questions. Others are ready to embed change at every level.
The framework offers a clear, compassionate pathway — not a rigid prescription. It honours the complexity of real organisations while providing the structure needed to move forward with confidence.
Each stage builds on the last. Progress is cumulative, not linear — and that's by design.
Roots
Understanding your foundations
Before anything can grow, you need to understand where you are. The Roots stage is about honest reflection — examining your organisation's values, culture, current practices and relationship with lived experience. We help you see clearly, without judgement.
What does your organisation currently do with lived experience?
Where are the gaps between intention and practice?
What foundations do you already have to build on?
Stem
Building the structures for growth
With a clear picture of where you are, the Stem stage focuses on building the skills, structures and systems that will support meaningful change. This is where capacity is built, confidence grows and the conditions for genuine participation are created.
What skills and knowledge does your team need?
What structures will support lived-experience involvement?
How will you resource and sustain this work?
Bloom
Bringing lived experience to the centre
The Bloom stage is where lived experience moves from the margins to the mainstream. Organisations at this stage are actively co-designing services, involving people with lived experience in decision-making and embedding this approach into their culture and identity.
How are people with lived experience shaping your work?
What does genuine co-production look like in your context?
How is this reflected in your culture, leadership and communications?
Pollination
Spreading impact beyond your organisation
Pollination is about reaching outward — sharing learning, inspiring others and contributing to wider systemic change. Organisations at this stage are not just doing this work well; they're helping to shift the field.
How are you sharing what you've learned?
What role can you play in influencing the wider system?
How are you supporting others to grow?
Where are you on the journey?
Every organisation starts somewhere. Whether you're at Roots or approaching Pollination, Molly May Consultancy can help you take the next step.