Community Fund: Outcomes Programme

This procurement falls within the "light touch regime" applicable to the procurement of contracts for social and other specific services, as set out in Regulations 74 to 76 of the Public Cntracts Regulations 2015 ('Regulations'). The Council is orientating this procurement towards the open procedure as described in Regulations but using a "light touch" approach. The Council does not hold itself bound by the Regulations except to the extent that they apply to the light touch regime as set out in Regulations 74 to 76 of the Regulations.

In Croydon we are lucky enough to have one of the largest VCS in London. The sector here is strong, vibrant and diverse and is a key player in delivering services and support to some of Croydon's most vulnerable residents. VCS groups and organisations are able to reach places and people that statutory agencies often cannot and have a greater ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the community. To ensure the sector is able to continue playing this role, the Council has committed to investing £2.6m per annum for up to 3 years through the Community Fund.

Through the Outcomes Programme, the Council are looking to fund bids which demonstrate the following commissioning principles:-

• Does the bid involve collaboration with other VCS groups? • Is it tackling a particular need in a locality? • Does it focus on prevention, early identification and intervention? • Does it support one or more of the priority outcomes? • Is it evidence based? • Is it innovative?

This Outcomes Prospectus provides information on the key outcome themes which the Council wants to commission, as well as a guide on how to apply and how bids will be evaluated. Croydon Council welcomes bids from Voluntary and Community Sector organisations who can deliver projects and services in the borough, which will contribute to one of Croydon's 5 outcome priorities. We are looking to support projects which will deliver positive change and benefits for individuals or communities within Croydon. The 5 outcome priorities include:

Outcome 1: People live long, healthy, happy and independent lives Outcome 2: Our children and young people thrive and reach their full potential Outcome 3: Access to homes and prevention of homelessness Outcome 4: Everyone feels safer in their street, neighbourhood and home Outcome 5: Everybody has the opportunity to work and build their career

Tender Applications are for bids over £15,000 per annum. A guide maximum bid value is £40,000 per annum however the Council reserves the right to award Contracts above this sum if they pass the minimum evaluation criteria