Strategic Framework for development and implementation of the SIGN programme

Norfolk County Council (NCC) has been procuring contracts for social investor provider partnerships over the last few years as part of a wider programme of social inclusion, and is now putting in place a framework agreement to better enable departments within the council to bring on board social investors for its social inclusion projects. This strategic framework seeks to support long-term partnerships between funders, investors, outcome payers and Norfolk delivery partners in developing and implementing a wide range of investment projects aligned to UK government policy, NCC strategic objectives and the Norfolk Local Growth Plan. NCC are keen to see partnerships that deliver higher impact for beneficiaries, delivery partners and NCC commissioners. Norfolk County Council is seeking Social Investors to support its departments in its social inclusion goals over the next few years. This framework agreement for development and implementation of the Social Investment for Growth and Networks (SIGN) programme seeks to support long-term partnerships between funders, investors, outcome payers and Norfolk delivery partners in developing and implementing a wide range of investment projects aligned to UK government policy, NCC strategic objectives and the Norfolk Local Growth Plan. Norfolk County Council are creating the framework agreement to provide a mechanism for engaging with investors in a timely manner, targeted to their specific interests through the lots being tendered. Please note that Norfolk County Council has joined the government's Devolution Priority Programme. Both Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council have approved a devolution deal which is expected to lead to the establishment of a Mayoral Combined County Authority with strategic powers, headed by an elected mayor. This is subject to the government laying a Statutory Instrument and to its approval by Parliament to formally establish the new combined authority. Government has also invited participation by Norfolk in Local Government Review. This process has the potential to lead to unitary local government in Norfolk. One of these changes could happen without the other. The contract may be assigned or novated to any successor authority(ies) to Norfolk County Council or to any joint body incorporating or formed by any such successor. The County Council or a successor authority or joint body may order services on behalf of other local authorities serving any area within Norfolk's current geographical boundaries. Full details of the requirement can be found in the Service Specification, which forms a Schedule to the Terms and Conditions.