The power and value of relationships in local authorities’ and central government funding encouraging culture change

Abstract

This chapter describes the emergence and development of the Centre for Partnering (CfP), a think tank that has been formed to explore the role and effect of partnering between different kinds of organisations from within the public, private, and voluntary sectors. The research projects that the CfP will undertake include an examination of the role that procurement and commissioning of services has played and could play in the future of partnering. The research agenda is also focused on the value of partnering as it could impact on large-scale infrastructure projects where social and other community (local and national) issues are addressed. The CfP agenda also addresses 'wicked issues', as identified as part of the consideration of the social determinants of health. The focus of this research is upon the value of establishing a legal framework through which prospective partners can enter into a dialogue to build trust and a relationship ahead of formal contract relationships.