Commissioning
Commissioning is the process through which Dorset Council understands local needs, plans future services and support, works with providers and communities to develop solutions, and monitors outcomes to ensure people receive high-quality support that makes a positive difference to their lives.
Effective commissioning is about more than purchasing services. It involves working with people, carers, providers, communities and partners to understand current and future needs, shape the market, encourage innovation and ensure resources are used effectively to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Dorset Council’s Approach to Commissioning
Dorset Council is committed to commissioning services that support people to live healthy, independent and fulfilling lives.
Our approach is based on a number of key principles:
Prevention and Early Intervention
We want people to remain independent for as long as possible.
This means investing in approaches that promote wellbeing, prevent needs from escalating and provide support at the earliest opportunity. We recognise the important role that communities, voluntary organisations, technology and local support networks can play in achieving this ambition.
Working in Partnership
We recognise that the best outcomes are achieved through collaboration.
We work closely with:
- people who draw on care and support
- unpaid carers
- care and support providers
- community and voluntary organisations
- NHS partners
- other public sector organisations
Providers are important partners in helping us understand local needs, develop new approaches and deliver high-quality support across Dorset.
Co-production
We are committed to involving people in decisions that affect them.
We seek to work alongside people with lived experience, carers, providers and communities to design, improve and evaluate services. Co-production helps ensure services are shaped by real experiences and focused on what matters most to local people.
Strengths-Based Commissioning
We recognise the strengths, skills and assets that exist within individuals, families and communities.
Our commissioning approach seeks to build on these strengths, supporting people to maintain independence, make connections within their communities and access the support that is right for them.
Place-Based Working
Different communities have different strengths, opportunities and challenges.
We seek to understand local needs and commission services that reflect the characteristics of Dorset’s communities, ensuring support is accessible, responsive and relevant to local circumstances.
Supporting a Sustainable Market
A strong and diverse provider market is essential to delivering high-quality care and support.
We work with providers to understand market pressures, workforce challenges, future demand and opportunities for innovation. Through ongoing engagement and dialogue we aim to support a sustainable and resilient care market that can meet the changing needs of Dorset residents.
Quality, Outcomes and Innovation
We commission services that focus on improving outcomes and delivering value.
We encourage innovation, continuous improvement and the use of evidence to help ensure services remain effective, responsive and person-centred. We are interested in approaches that enhance quality, improve experiences and make the best use of available resources.
Engaging with the Market
Engagement with providers is a key part of Dorset Council’s commissioning approach.
We regularly seek views and feedback from providers to help develop our understanding of market conditions, emerging challenges and opportunities for improvement. This insight helps inform future commissioning intentions, service development and market-shaping activity.
Dorset Care Association plays an important role in supporting communication and engagement between providers and Dorset Council and helping ensure that the voice of the sector is heard.
