Strategic aims

An effective, sustainable care market depends on strong, collaborative relationships between commissioners and providers. In Norfolk, we know that partnership working is most successful when it's built on trust, clear communication, and a shared commitment to improving outcomes for people. Providers bring essential insight, knowledge and skills - playing a vital role not only in delivering care but in shaping how support is designed and improved. 

We are committed to strengthening these relationships by improving the way we share data, engage in two-way dialogue, and co-develop service models. This includes clearer communication of commissioning priorities, making it easier to do business with us, and creating more opportunities for providers to influence planning and delivery. Whether through formal forums, project groups, surveys, or day-to-day contact, our aim is to work with providers in a way that is respectful, transparent, and focused on shared goals. 

To support this, Norfolk County Council continues to provide grant funding to the Norfolk Care Association (NorCA) - an independent, sector-led body that champions the voice of adult social care providers. NorCA represents the sector in key forums, shares market intelligence, and helps strengthen collaboration across the system. 

Our ambitions

• Strengthen how we share commissioning plans, population insights, and market-shaping priorities - ensuring providers have the information they need to plan confidently and align their services with future needs
• Develop more co-produced service models, giving providers a stronger voice in shaping care delivery
• Promote transparency in decision-making and foster a culture of collaboration and mutual accountability
• Be a reliable and responsive commissioner - by improving payment timeliness, streamlining back-office systems, and making it easier to do business with us
• Support innovation through pilot projects, collaborative design, and joint training opportunities
• Establish and maintain regular provider forums to strengthen two-way dialogue and sector development

What this means for providers

• We'll keep you better informed and involve you earlier in service planning
• You'll have more opportunities to help shape services that work in practice

What people can expect

• To feel that services are joined-up, transparent, and designed with their needs in mind
• To benefit from improvements informed by both provider and service user feedback