Making partnership work for patients, carers and service users: a strategic agreement between the Department of Health, the NHS and the voluntary and community sector

The voluntary and community sector (VCS) has a long tradition of providing services directly to the community and specific client groups. In doing so, the VCS has built up a reputation for diversity and innovation and for meeting the needs of people who often fall outside of the so-called mainstream health and social care system. People’s expectations of public services generally and the NHS in particular are increasing year on year. A one-size fits all approach is no longer acceptable. That means planning and designing services aroundindividuals and extending provision beyond the NHS and Social Care to include the independent sector and, most crucially, the VCS. This jointly developed agreement provides a framework for a new strategic partnership between the Department of Health, the NHS & Social Care and the VCS. It was informed by the response of the VCS to the consultation, Making Partnership Work for Patients, Carers and Service Users.