Mapping Third Sector expansion in health and social care

Last week the Department of Health published the results of research (PDF available, 4.2MB) examining the potential contribution that the third sector can make in health and social care. The research involved surveys of third sector organisations (TSOs)and local authorities.

The research estimated that 35,000 TSOs currently provide health and/or social care in England with a further 1600 planning to do so in the next three to five years. The total funding for these services amounts to an annual £12billion.

Local authorities were very positive about the services provided by TSOs, with overall levels of satisfaction over 80%. Local authorities felt the organisations provided good value for money, high quality and responsive services.

Lets hope that TSOs have the business skills, and the financial and governance capacity to manage expansion.