A STRONG commitment to long-term partnership with the third sector has been reaffirmed — as plans are set out to strengthen how advice, support and care services delivered in communities are commissioned.
The Integration Joint Board (IJB) heard plans last week to bring third sector organisations together through a Strategic Alliance, creating a single, shared approach to funding and partnership while protecting investment in the sector.
Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership Chief Officer Gareth Marr said: “We know the third sector is under real pressure, and this approach is designed to provide stability and clarity at a time when many organisations are facing wider uncertainty.
“Through this Strategic Alliance, we are protecting the total level of investment, working ethically and collaboratively, and supporting organisations to plan with confidence.”
The Alliance will bring partners together around shared outcomes for people and communities, replacing fragmented approaches with a more joined-up way of working.
The IJB spends more than £6 million annually with third sector organisations. £2.3m is already committed until at least April 2027 and today’s decision means the remaining £4 million per year will be protected for at least the next three years. This represents a significant safeguarding of investment in the sector at a time of acute financial pressure across health and social care.
Viv Gration, Deputy Head of Strategic Planning and Commissioning, said: “The third sector is essential to how we create health, prevent ill health and support people to live well. This is about strengthening what already works, learning together, and supporting everyone to adapt in a managed and supportive way.”
Alongside this, essential statutory services will continue without interruption, including £710,000 for Carers’ support and £176,000 for independent advocacy, ensuring legal duties are met and vital services remain secure.
A co-design phase will begin immediately, involving third sector organisations, communities and partners in shaping how the Alliance operates, how decisions are made and how outcomes are measured.
The new way of investing will begin to be implemented from April 2026, recognising that change will be phased and not all elements will happen at once.
The IJB also confirmed that transition support will be available where needed, including targeted investment, to help organisations adapt and remain sustainable as arrangements evolve.
To support readiness across the sector, Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway will receive additional funding to provide capacity-building support, guidance and facilitation.
Welcoming the move, Alan Webb, Chief Executive of Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway, said: “It’s about trust and working together. Time is important to help the sector adapt to change and play its full part, especially given the current pressures impacting people and communities.
“The commitment to invest in capacity is welcome and, by providing stability now and supporting thoughtful change at the correct pace, we can build a stronger and more sustainable future for communities across Dumfries and Galloway.”