Social Impact Framework - Reopening 1

The East of England NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub has established a multi-lot Social Impact Framework to support the commissioning of services that address health inequalities and the wider determinants of health. This notice relates to the first reopening of the open framework under the Procurement Act 2023.

The reopening allows new suppliers to apply to join the framework and existing suppliers to apply for additional Lots where relevant. The framework provides a compliant and structured route for NHS organisations, Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), local authorities, and other public sector bodies to procure community-based services.

It is designed to strengthen collaboration with VCSEs, SMEs, and specialist providers, with the aim of improving early access to support and reducing pressure on acute services. The framework focuses on three core themes: Voice & Influence: Enabling people and communities to shape services, exercise choice, and be active participants in decision-making.

Community-Led Services for Social Impact: Supporting services led by local organisations and communities, with a focus on addressing locally identified needs. Prevention & Cessation: Commissioning services that focus on prevention, early intervention, and supporting people to make positive changes, reducing demand for crisis or acute care.

Services may include, but are not limited to, support relating to mental health, housing, employment, financial inclusion, domestic abuse, and wider prevention services. Supports marginalised or underrepresented groups to influence local decisions.

Builds skills, facilitates forums, and ensures views are heard and acted upon. Coordinates and represents the VCSE sector within systems like ICBs.

Advises on sector priorities, connects VCSEs and public bodies, and influences policy. Delivers early help, targeted support, and activities for children, young people, and families facing disadvantage or complex needs.

Provides trauma-informed support, safety planning, refuge, outreach, and specialist help for people affected by domestic abuse. Supports those facing social, economic, or personal barriers into employment or training.

Offers tailored advice, skills, and work placements. Offers nature-based, non-clinical activities such as gardening, outdoor groups, and green social prescribing to boost wellbeing.

Provides advice on benefits, debt, budgeting, and digital skills to reduce inequality and prevent hardship or exclusion. Ensures short-term food security through immediate access to nutritious food through hubs and emergency support, as well as longer-term solutions such as developing cooking skills, and facilitating community food projects.

Supports people at risk of homelessness to access safe housing, prevent crisis, and build long-term stability. Tailors support for people facing severe social exclusion, including refugees, migrants, and those not registered with statutory services.

Delivers community-based mental health and wellbeing support for people at risk of poor outcomes or facing barriers. Provides preventative and supportive physical health services, self-management support, and outreach for those with long-term conditions.

Supports people in or leaving the criminal justice system to rebuild their lives through resettlement, skills, and wellbeing support. Helps young people aged 16-25 with SEND build skills, confidence, and independence as they transition to adulthood.

Activities that build stronger, more connected communities with the aim of reducing isolation and loneliness, improving community wellbeing, and fostering a sense of belonging among people from different backgrounds Enables people with additional needs to live independently through accommodation and practical support.

Delivers support to people in their homes or communities, especially those unable to access mainstream services. Supports unpaid carers by promoting their wellbeing, reducing isolation and stress, and helping them sustain their caring role with access to advice, support, and respite.

Offers flexible, person-led support for people with learning disabilities or autism to improve life skills, health, and inclusion. Delivers evidence-based support to help people quit smoking, including targeted interventions for high-risk groups.

Provides behaviour change support, group programmes, and outreach to help individuals and families achieve a healthy weight. Offers community-based harm reduction, interventions, and support for people affected by alcohol. Supports prevention, early identification, and self-management of respiratory conditions, and addresses environmental risks.