Resources to help you become commissioning-ready
A growing resource centre for CQC-registered care providers — practical guidance, templates, training and answers to the questions providers ask most often about commissioning readiness.
The foundations
Everything you need to understand what commissioning readiness means in practice — and how to begin preparing your organisation.
Commissioning Readiness
What commissioners evaluate, how to prepare and the evidence portfolio that demonstrates genuine capability. A structured framework grounded in real commissioning standards.
ExploreFramework Guidance
Understanding council procurement frameworks — how they work, what they look for and how to position your organisation for successful application.
ExploreProvider Development
Structured development pathways for providers at every stage — from newly registered to established operators seeking to grow commissioned services.
ExploreTools to get you ready
Downloadable templates, tender preparation guidance, and answers to the questions providers ask most often.
Templates & Policies
Downloadable templates and policy frameworks that support commissioning readiness — designed to align with commissioner expectations.
ExploreTender Preparation
Practical guidance on preparing for tender processes — structuring responses, evidencing capability and presenting your case to commissioners.
ExploreFrequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions providers ask most often about commissioning, council frameworks, readiness assessment and the PDA pathway.
ExploreFrequently asked questions
What is commissioning readiness?
Commissioning readiness means that a provider can demonstrate the operational capability, evidence portfolio and quality assurance systems that local authority commissioners evaluate during procurement — beyond what CQC registration requires.
How long does the PDA pathway take?
PDA follows a structured six-month pathway from initial onboarding to readiness recommendation. The duration varies depending on individual provider circumstances and development needs.
Is PDA a procurement framework?
No. PDA is a provider development and market access programme — it is not a procurement framework and does not replace existing commissioning, procurement or contracting arrangements.
What does PDA cost for providers?
PDA is funded by provider subscription. The cost varies depending on the provider's size, service types and development needs. Contact us for a discussion about your specific circumstances.
Can I join PDA if my CQC rating is 'Requires Improvement'?
PDA is designed for providers rated Good or Outstanding. If your rating is Requires Improvement, we recommend focusing on your improvement plan first and contacting us once your rating has been upgraded.
Do councils have to pay for PDA?
No. PDA is funded entirely by provider subscription. There is no cost to local authorities for accessing PDA's market intelligence, provider assessment data or pipeline of development-ready providers.
Build your team's knowledge
Training and development opportunities to strengthen your team's commissioning readiness. More sessions are being added — check back or register your interest to be notified.
Training & Events
Upcoming training sessions and webinars designed to support provider development and commissioning readiness — delivered by our provider development team.
Register InterestWorkshops
Structured workshops on commissioning readiness, framework applications and evidence portfolio building. Practical, hands-on sessions for providers at every stage.
Register InterestReady to become commissioning-ready?
Register your interest and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your next steps.