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World class commissioning

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The world class commissioning programme is transforming the way health and care services are commissioned.

World class commissioning will deliver a more strategic and long-term approach to commissioning services, with a clear focus on delivering improved health outcomes.

There are four key elements to the programme; a vision for world class commissioning, a set of world class commissioning competencies, an assurance system and a support and development framework.

Latest updates:

Excellence in world class commissioning

Greater Manchester and Cheshire Cardiac and Stroke Network won the world class commissioning category at this year's HSJ Awards presented on 30 November. Their programme was a good example of both clinical and provider engagement. Two Primary Stroke Centres and an additional Comprehensive Stroke Centre open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, now give patients access to care services within 4 hours of onset of symptoms.

World Class Commissioning and Audit Commission Use of Resources

Letter on work being undertaken to coordinate the World Class Commissioning (WCC) assurance system with the annual judgement by auditors on PCTs’ use of resources (UoR).

Commissioning pathfinders sought

As part of a wider programme of work around services for children and young people with speech, language and communication needs, applications are sought for commissioning pathfinders to test ways of improving how these services are commissioned and the outcomes for children and young people using them.

Additional links

Also on this site:  

NHS networks

A new section on the NHS networks website provides commissioners with news, guidance and tools, information on events and examples of good practice. To register online and find out more visit:

Social Enterprise Investment Fund

The Social Enterprise Investment Fund provides investment to social enterprises delivering health and social care services.

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