Commissioning resources

Commissioning effectively starts with a deep understanding of citizens and communities, ensuring services are designed and delivered according to their needs, aspirations and experiences.


There are a number programmes and guidance of commissioning:

  • Productivity programme

    The Commissioning Academy is a joint programme between the LGA and the Cabinet Office which enables senior commissioners from both local and central government to develop their commissioning knowledge and skills alongside each other.

  • Workforce

    Practical guidance for councils dealing with the workforce implications of commissioning. The LGA has, with partners, produced a series of case studies on mutuals for the delivery of public services.

  • Culture and Sport

    The LGA Culture and Sport Programme provides guidance for members and officers leading culture and sport services to exploit the opportunities presented by commissioning. This includes a practical resource pack and a two-day Leadership programme.

  • Children’s Services Commissioning and Procurement Group

    This group is for local authority procurement professionals, commissioners and consortia leads to discuss projects, share best practice and explore opportunities for closer working. The group meets quarterly and you can join the virtual group on the knowledge hub entitled ‘Children’s Services Commissioning and Procurement Group’.

Template sufficiency statement

To support councils in their duty to secure sufficient accommodation for children in their care, the LGA commissioned Alma Economics to produce a template sufficiency statement. This template, which was produced in consultation with local authorities, provides a starting point for councils to develop their sufficiency statements and helps to introduce consistency in how these are produced and the minimum levels of information included. The template includes graphs for illustrative purposes only; you will wish to replace these with the most up-to-date local and national information.

  • Health

    The LGA is working NHS England and other national partners to develop a range of tools and support for commissioners to promote integrated care in all areas. Tools are available on the Knowledge Hub and a resource sheet.

  • Councillor Development

    The Leadership Academy supports leadership skills for Councillors. The academy covers a range of topics, including commissioning. There is also guidance on Commissioning For Better Public Services.