Preparing for Commissioning Conversations: What Providers Need to Evidence in 2025
Commissioning priorities have evolved. In 2025, social care commissioners aren’t just looking for services that meet minimum standards. They want evidence of innovation, resilience, and quality that goes beyond compliance.
If you’re preparing for contract discussions, tenders, or partnerships, here’s what you need to evidence to stand out:
🔑 1. Clear Service Model and Outcomes
Commissioners want to understand how your service delivers value — not just activity. This means clearly articulating:
- Your service model (supported living, complex needs, reablement, etc.)
- How your model aligns with local priorities and strategies
- What outcomes you deliver — and how you measure them
💡 Tip: Avoid jargon. Be specific about what success looks like for the people you support.
🔑 2. Strong Governance and Quality Assurance
Quality remains non-negotiable. Commissioners expect clear governance structures, quality assurance frameworks, and evidence of continuous improvement. Be ready to share:
- Organisational charts and leadership accountability
- Quality audits and improvement plans
- Complaint handling and feedback processes
💡 Tip: Align this evidence with CQC’s Well-Led and Quality Statements frameworks for consistency.
🔑 3. Workforce Stability and Safer Recruitment
Staff retention is a commissioning priority. High turnover increases risks and costs. Commissioners want to see:
- Robust safer recruitment processes
- Training and development strategies
- Retention plans and outcomes
💡 Tip: Show how your culture supports stability, wellbeing, and progression.
🔑 4. Commitment to Personalisation and Co-Production
“Person-centred” is no longer enough. Commissioners want to see:
- Service user involvement in planning, reviews, and governance
- Evidence of adapting services based on feedback
- Flexible, responsive care models
💡 Tip: Use examples, not just statements.
🔑 5. Innovation and Sustainability
Services that demonstrate proactive approaches to sustainability, digital tools, and community integration are better positioned. Consider:
- Assistive technology
- Digital care planning
- Social value contributions
💡 Tip: Small innovations count — show adaptability and forward-thinking.
🎯 Final Thought
Preparing for commissioning conversations in 2025 isn’t just about policies and paperwork. It’s about articulating a confident, credible service offer with clear outcomes, strong governance, and forward momentum. This is what commissioners want — and expect — to see.
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Updated for Procurement Act 2023 • CQC-aligned • BASE-aligned (where relevant)