This seminar was aimed at senior leaders and commissioners in local public authorities, social enterprises that trade in public service markets and others interested in supporting the development of new solutions for services in local communities.

Building on E3M’s ground-breaking work in applying the principles of The Art of the Possible in Public Procurement, the event explored how innovative approaches are being developed to harness the power of social enterprises to work in partnership with public authorities to tackle local challenges and improve outcomes for people and communities.

Social enterprises offer a clear alternative to outsourcing to private, share-value driven companies. New commissioning models are being developed, based on true social value, where social enterprises are re-investing profits and interests are aligned in pursuit of public benefit. This is based on an approach that moves from transactional procurement based on cheapest price, to developing relational partnerships.

Providing a mix of expert advice, exploration of practical case studies and interactive peer-learning among those taking part, the seminar used the latest examples and thinking about public bodies and social enterprises working together to explore the critical issues for success.

Held in partnership with the CCIN and PSTA.

Agenda

9.30 – Arrivals and tea/coffee

10.00 – Introduction: a partnership approach

10.30 – Commissioning for Innovation and Outcomes

11.15 – Break

11.30 – Commissioning for Innovation and Outcomes (continued)

12.15 – Levering in additional finance and resources

13.30 – Lunch

14.15 – Creating Social Value and Maximising Impact

15.30 – Break

15.45 – Models for effective partnership

17.00 – End

Speakers included:

Julian Blake – Partner, Stone King
Jonathan Bland – MD, Social Business International
Matt Katz – Partner, Buzzacott LLP
Sharon Lowrie – Managing Director, Be Caring
Malcolm McClean – Business Development Manager, PossAbilities
John Mulligan – Director of Funding Development, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation
Dai Powell OBE – Chief Executive, HCT Group
Vicky Sugars – Strategy, Reform, Partnership & Policy Manager, Oldham Council
Benjamin Taylor – CEO, Public Service Transformation Academy