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Improving relationships in the care market

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TLAP is pleased to launch a new protocol to guide market relations, developed by the National Market Development Forum. Stronger partnerships for better outcomes offers a set of principles and good behaviours that, if applied, will enhance effective ways of working between people, family carers, service providers and local authority commissioners.

Skills for Care Chief Executive Sharon Allen, who oversaw the development of the protocol, says:

"The protocol is a key way to unlock potential for creative, person-centred approaches to meeting people's needs. Recognising that all of these partners have skills, experience and knowledge to bring to the table, it provides a framework for local partners to maximise the combined impact of all. It also recognises the need for ongoing skills development for all partners as, by its very Nature, developing personalised services is an evolving picture."

The protocol is supported a set of workshop materials - Commissioning the Future - which have been designed to help those involved in strategic commissioning rehearse and explore new ways in developing the care market.

Five scenario-based exercises will start new conversations between people who use services, carers, providers and commissioners on issues including:

  • Re-shaping accommodation for people with learning disabilities.
  • How people with personal budgets and those who fund their own care can create opportunities for business change in the care market.
  • Driving integration through outcome-based homecare.
  • People who use services taking a lead in commissioning for end of life care and brokerage services.

Chair of TLAP's National Market Development Forum, Bill Mumford says:

"The three perspectives of people, carers and families, service providers and commissioners need to be brought together in a conducive and non antagonistic way. The five scenarios will support each of those groups to adopt some of key skills and behaviours advocated in the protocol, which I commend to all those involved in care and support."