Acevo and the Foundation Trust Network have launched a joint project looking at how NHS trusts and charities can work together to deliver the new NHS Commissioning Board mandate.

The NHS Commissioning Board mandate, published this month by the Department of Health, sets out its priorities for the health service over the next two years.

Acevo and the Foundation Trust Network will work together to showcase best practice between NHS Trusts and voluntary organisations; and identify up to 20 areas that either NHS trusts or voluntary organisations, or both in partnership can work together to deliver NHS priorities.

A joint report will be published in Spring 2013.

Sir Stephen Bubb, chief executive of Acevo, said: “Voluntary sector organisations and NHS trusts already do a great deal in partnership - but there is huge untapped potential for them to achieve more together.

"The UK has one of the most vibrant third sectors in the world, and one of the best health systems. Getting the two working better together could be key to the NHS's success in responding to the Secretary of State's mandate".