Getting a Better Deal – Assessing Unit Cost and Engaging with the Market

This case study shows a real world example of reducing costs through:

• Analysis of the children and young people's residential care market
  
  
• Design of a 10 year market strategy and market management
  
  
• Better supplier engagement
  
  
• The establishment of a standard price for residential placements to reduce variation and reduce costs
  
  
• Practical negotiation with all residential suppliers.

The case study highlights the steps that Blackpool took, as well as demonstrating popular techniques for negotiation.

Outcomes

So far the project has had the following outcomes and outputs:

• £400,000 saving per year
  
  
• Baselines for the required provision
  
  
• Development of sustainable markets
  
  
• Improved relationships with providers

Click to read further effective practice case studies related to joint planning and commissioning.