Being a provider in Croydon

Guidance for current and prospective providers of social care and health services in Croydon.

Contents

Our approach to commissioning

We want to:

  • work in partnership with providers
  • improve services continuously based on residents’ needs
  • use longer-term contracts where appropriate
  • share risk and reward

We aim to work with organisations that prioritise:

  • social value
  • public benefit
  • positive outcomes for residents 

We will publish a new commissioning framework in 2026 to 2027.

Person centred

We aim to put the resident at the heart of everything we do. Commissioning is driven by the choices, voices, and lived experiences of the people who use the service and their family and carers.

Outcomes focused

We will commission for impact, focusing on:

  • improved wellbeing
  • promoting independence
  • delivering measurable results that make a real difference to peoples lives

Best value

We will use public resources responsibly to secure continuous improvement. Commissioning services that are effective, efficient and enable us to deliver our medium term financial strategy for 2026 to 2029

Prevention and early intervention

We will prioritise approaches that prevent, reduce or delay the need for more intensive care and support. Helping people remain active and independent in their communities.

Fairness and inclusivity

We will promote equity of access and ensure commissioned services reflect and respond to Croydon's diverse communities and differing local needs.

Collaborations and partnerships

We will work across the council, NHS, the voluntary community and faith sector (VCFS), and providers, to design and deliver joined up, integrated solutions that achieve shared goals.

Social values 

Social values are about:

  • strengthening community capacity
  • supporting environmental sustainability
  • improving workforce wellbeing

Embedding social value within commissioning enables us to:

  • maximise the impact of public investment
  • foster more resilient and equitable communities
  • work collaboratively with providers to deliver outcomes that create lasting, positive change

Read more about procurement and our social value framework.