VS6 calls for bold action to empower the VCFSE sector in public service reform
A new report launched by the VS6 Partnership sets out a powerful vision for transforming public service delivery across the Liverpool City Region by placing the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector at the heart of innovation.
Titled “A Journey, not a Destination: The VCFSE sector and public service innovation”, the report draws on engagement with sector leaders, infrastructure bodies, and community organisations. It outlines a series of key enablers and recommendations aimed at reshaping commissioning practices to be more courageous, strengthening partnerships, and creating more inclusive, equitable public services
“This report is a call to action,” said Racheal Jones, Chief Executive of One Knowsley and VCFSE representative on the Combined Authority Office for Public Service Innovation Stakeholder Group. “It challenges public sector leaders to move beyond transactional relationships and embrace a model of collaboration, trust, and shared power. The VCFSE sector is already leading the way in community-led innovation. Now we need courageous systems that enable and amplify that leadership.”
Key asks of public sector policy leads and commissioners include:
Move away from competitive processes that pit organisations against each other for funding and instead adopt frameworks that promote collaboration.
Moving towards courageous and flexible commissioning models that reflect the complexity of community needs and the diversity of organisations working to meet them.
Investing in strategic, community-led funding models with investment seen as a shared resource for achieving our collective outcomes.
Improving communication, data sharing and visibility of grassroots organisations including access to commissioning opportunities.
Creating trusted environments for integrated working that allow for positive disruption.
The report also highlights the need for a cultural shift in how public services are designed and delivered, valuing lived experience, soft outcomes, and the unique strengths of the VCFSE sector.
VS6 are urging the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and all public sector bodies to adopt the recommendations and work alongside the VCFSE sector to build a more resilient, responsive, and people-centred future.
In addition to its recommendations, the report outlines a set of practical actions for public sector leaders. These actions are aimed at helping leaders embed collaboration with the VCFSE sector into everyday practice – from creating space for shared decision-making and flexible commissioning, to valuing lived experience and investing in community-led solutions. Together, these steps are designed to support a cultural shift towards more equitable, responsive, and people-centred public services.