When dealing with third sector providers CCG's should also bear in mind Local Compacts. The National Compact was originally established in 1998 and is an agreement that sets out the shared principles and guidelines for effective partnership working between central government and the third sector in England. The National Compact recognises shared values principles and commitments and sets out guidelines for how both parties should work together. The Compact aims to offer improved funding processes clear consultation standards enforceable rights and an overall improvement in working relationships. The National Compact does not directly apply to local public bodies. Instead there are Local Compacts which are built on the same principles. Almost all local areas already have Local Compacts in place.
Compacts are voluntary agreements not legally binding. Their authority is derived from its endorsement by government and by the voluntary and community sector through its consultation process. In Compact negotiations the third sector has been represented by the Compact Voice a representative body for the interests of the third sector in all matters related to the Compact. The Compact Voice has over 2 300 members from across the sector and its board is made up of members of front-line charities and umbrella organisations. Further details on Compacts can be found at the Compact Voices website.