The Compact wiki

An explanation of what The Compact is and how it helps non profit organisations.

The Compact is an agreement that sets out the ‘rules of engagement’ for how government and the non profit sector should work together for the benefit of the people they serve. It was first published in 1998 and is supported by various codes, including a Funding and Procurement Code. Local versions of the Compact and its codes have been developed by nearly all local authorities and PCTs.

At their best, local Compacts and their codes can ensure good practice in commissioning and procurement and can be used by individual organisations to change or improve local practice. See ‘What makes a successful Compact' on The Compact website.

The Commission for the Compact has published some helpful guidance for local authorities and other public sector bodies commissioning third sector organisations to provide public services. Make sure your commissioners are aware of this guidance.

When things go wrong, the NCVO Compact Advocacy Programme and the NAVCA Public Law Project, both funded by the Big Lottery Fund, may be able to help you challenge the way in which your local authority or other public body has behaved. Share your experiences

Have your say

Have you had any success in using The Compact in improving commissioning and procurement practice in your area?

Have your say on the Commissioning and procurement forum.