Between 2017-19, Lloyds Bank Foundation published a report: “Commissioning in Crisis. How current contracting and procurement processes threaten the survival of small charities”.
They carried out research with a range of smaller charities across the UK and found that:
“All of the evidence shared in this report unequivocally demonstrates that the current approach to commissioning is in crisis. … It is seen most prominently in the marginalisation of small and medium-sized charities. … Small and medium-sized charities losing out on the opportunity to provide services should be a concern for us all because it reflects the loss of the local expertise and an understanding of which is critical in making sure that Government does not leave any individuals or communities behind. … it is essential that commissioning works for small and medium-sized charities. They are the beating heart of a thriving society and are the only way to make sure that everyone can access the services they need and deserve.”
The report made alarming reading, so Action Hampshire carried out its own survey to see if findings were replicated at a local level in Hampshire. This report is the result of the survey.
An on-line survey was circulated through our voluntary sector networks in October and November 2017 and was followed with a findngs workshop. A report was published of findings.
Based on these findings, AH delivered a series of workshops in 2019 jointly with HCC to support VCSE organisations with commissioning and tendering.
You can view the full details of our research, ‘Local commissioning the experiences of Hampshire’s voluntary sector’ by downloading the report and/or summary below:
