Careers in commissioning

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Commissioning is the process through which public bodies, including local authorities, Clinical Commissioning Groups and other NHS services deliver services.

Good commissioning helps people to take control of their own care and support so they have choice and control over their lives and care, live well and reach their potential.

Successful commissioners will shape and build a diverse market of services, including self-directed and preventative services, developing skills in the community and equipping people to deliver safe and effective care and support.

You can read more about this in the 'Commisioning for wellbeing' guide. In the video below, staff at West Gate House tell us how good commissioning helps them to deliver support for people with dementia.

Commissioning for wellbeing

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Effective commissioners combine problem-solving, innovation and resourcefulness with empathy for the rights and wellbeing of the local population they are commissioning services for, often finding creative solutions to complex challenges.

Qualifications

There are no formal entry requirements to work in commissioning but you'll need a good level of education or appropriate experience. Examples of what you might see in a personal specification for each role:

Commissioning Assistants - a qualification equivalent to Regulated Qualification Framework (RQF) Level 3.
Commissioning Officer - a qualification equivalent to RQF Level 5 or degree equivalent.

Read more about this on page 10 of the 'Commisioning for wellbeing' guide.

West Gate House - good commissioning and dementia

The workforce at West Gate House tell us how good commissioning helps them to deliver support for people with dementia.

Duration 3 mins 30 secs

Commisioning vacancies

Most local authorities will advertise directly on their website under "Vacancies". Some commissioners have joined a national graduate development scheme. Each Council runs it's own scheme and gives you a range of placements in different departments, which may include commissioning. Find out more on the Local Government Association website.

Case study videos

Careers in commisioning and beyond - Sarah Pickup / Sara Livadeas

Once you’re established, there are opportunities to work in other departments within local and national government, health services and CCG’s, operational/delivery roles, service providers, the voluntary sector and private sector organisations.

Sarah Pickup, Deputy Chief Executive of the Local Government Association and Sara Livadeas, former Strategy Director at The Orders of St John Care Trust talk about their own career journeys from commissioning into their current roles.