The quality of commissioning is positively associated with efficiency levels (Health Foundation report 2010, Commissioning Health: A comparison of English Primary Care Trusts).  In the current financial climate improving commissioning is of critical importance and with the second round of World Class Commissioning Assurance Frameworks panel assessments due in the summer, PCTs should be focusing on improving commissioning as a priority.

As part of their journey to becoming World Class, NHS Cambridgeshire and NHS Westminster are being supported by UNI to run training programmes  for staff to improve their knowledge of the commissioning cycle and to develop their commissioning skills. The training has a strong emphasis on practical exercises and runs over 2 days.  It examines the elements of the commissioning cycle and gives staff the opportunity to understand how their individual roles relate to the various elements, how they may engage more effectively in the process and to understand how this contributes to the achievement of the 11 World Class Commissioning Competencies. For more information about UNI’s commissioning support and training contact: julie.morgan@uni.gb.com