Public Social Partnership - Third Sector Social Care Commissions

A Public Social Partnership (PSP) is a collaborative framework in which public sector bodies and social enterprises or community organisations work together to co-design, deliver, and evaluate services with social impact. At the heart of a PSP is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), a formal document that defines the partnership’s purpose, scope, and the roles and responsibilities of each partner.

While an MOU is typically not legally binding, it provides a clear framework that ensures transparency, accountability, and mutual understanding. The MOU would outline the objectives of the partnership, the initiatives and learning to be delivered, and the intended social outcomes.

It clarifies how partners will share resources, expertise, and responsibilities, including funding, staffing, and operational support. Governance arrangements would be defined, often including steering committees or advisory groups, as well as processes for decision-making, monitoring, evaluation, and review.

Confidentiality, data protection, and dispute resolution mechanisms will be specified, helping to manage risk and maintain trust among all parties. By providing this structured framework, the MOU facilitates collaborative planning, co-production of services, and a shared commitment to social impact, while allowing each organisation to retain its autonomy and legal responsibilities.