What is commissioning?
Commissioning is how Norwich City Council works with external organisations - like charities, businesses, and community groups - to deliver services for residents.
Instead of doing everything in-house, the council partners with others to make the most of resources, improve service quality, and support the local economy.
Why does the council commission services?
By commissioning, the council can:
- achieve better outcomes for the community
- use resources more efficiently
- support local organisations, including voluntary and community groups
What does commissioning include?
Commissioning can take different forms depending on the service and community needs:
- procurement: buying goods or services through formal contracts
- grants: funding organisations to deliver specific outcomes
- partnerships: working together to achieve shared goals
Types of grants available
Annual grants - for voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations delivering ongoing services.
Community Grants Programme - small grants of £50, £300, or £500 for local groups or residents running neighbourhood projects.
Grants in Kind - instead of money, the council offers resources or facilities to support community work.
How does it work?
The council follows a commissioning framework—a set of principles and steps that guide how services are planned, funded, and reviewed. This ensures transparency, fairness, and alignment with community needs.
