Co-designing a new third sector funding scheme in Argyll and Bute

Learning points

Co-designing a new funding scheme delivered a significantly better result for both the Council and third sector organisations than would have been achieved by a traditional consultation exercise. Who would know better than those applying for funds what an easy-to-use funding scheme should look like? The co-design process surfaced the ideas and suggestions of all third sector organisations on key principles that should inform their grant funding. These principles have now been incorporated into other funding schemes of the Council. 

Third sector organisations also responded very positively to the full, frank and open presentation of issues from the Council and to the Council’s demonstrable commitment to working together. Clearly, a co-design process meant compromises and negotiations, as not all suggestions made by third sector organisations could be taken on board.

The exercise enabled the Council to reaffirm its commitment to grant funding and to clarify the relationship between grant funded and commissioned services.