Our Organization's Background
In the heart of Peterborough, a unique initiative is making a significant impact on the city's social landscape. The Social Justice Commissioning, a local body, is dedicated to addressing social justice issues and supporting vulnerable groups.
The Commissioning's primary role is to commission services that provide practical, emotional, and therapeutic support to victims of crime and abuse. This support is tailored to the local needs and priorities, particularly for groups affected by violence or discrimination. The Commissioning receives grant funding from the Ministry of Justice, which is then allocated based on community assessments to ensure appropriate, accessible, and effective service provision [1].
Networking and collaboration with other commissioning stakeholders is another key responsibility. This involves working with specialist organisations, local authorities, community groups, and social enterprises to share best practices and co-develop initiatives that respond to social justice challenges [3]. The Commissioning also participates in multi-agency boards or advisory groups to align its work with wider safeguarding and community safety strategies [1][4].
The Commissioning's efforts extend beyond service provision. It also supports vulnerable populations through strategic partnerships that prioritize affordable housing and accessible living environments. This ensures that housing and community development plans address the needs of the most vulnerable groups in Peterborough [2].
With a focus on continuous improvement, the Social Justice Commissioning aims to strengthen its reputation by driving up standards and increasing value for money. It provides learning and development opportunities for social justice commissioners, encouraging networking and debate among its members [5]. Currently, the Commissioning has only one staff member, but boasts over 3,400 members from various sectors, including public, private, academic, voluntary, community, and social enterprise [6].
Under the guidance of Business Manager, Janet Cullinan, the Social Justice Commissioning shares good practices in social justice commissioning and strengthens links with other commissioning stakeholders through networking, collaboration, and partnership working [7]. The Commissioning's ultimate objective is to create a city where everyone has equal opportunities and access to support services, fostering a more just and inclusive community in Peterborough.
[1] Ministry of Justice. (2021). Police and Crime Commissioners: Victim Services Fund. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/police-and-crime-commissioners-victim-services-fund/police-and-crime-commissioners-victim-services-fund
[2] Peterborough City Council. (2020). Affordable Housing Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.peterborough.gov.uk/downloads/download/2427/affordable_housing_strategy
[3] Social Justice Commissioning. (2021). Networking and Collaboration. Retrieved from https://www.socialjusticecommissioning.co.uk/networking-and-collaboration
[4] Peterborough City Council. (2020). Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.peterborough.gov.uk/downloads/download/2428/violence_against_women_and_girls_strategy
[5] Social Justice Commissioning. (2021). Learning and Development. Retrieved from https://www.socialjusticecommissioning.co.uk/learning-and-development
[6] Social Justice Commissioning. (2021). Membership. Retrieved from https://www.socialjusticecommissioning.co.uk/membership
[7] Social Justice Commissioning. (2021). Good Practice Sharing. Retrieved from https://www.socialjusticecommissioning.co.uk/good-practice-sharing
The Social Justice Commissioning, in its pursuit of a more just and inclusive city, actively seeks partnerships with businesses and social enterprises to ensure affordable housing and accessible living environments for vulnerable groups. In accomplishing this, the Commissioning collaborates with the finance sector to secure funding and invest in initiatives that prioritize community development.
