Gold Standard Network Framework
Public Sector networks achieve greatness through deliberate excellence. The XGov Gold Standard Network Framework guides networks to create communities that shine, uniting diverse public servants to promote collaboration, inclusion, and impact. Built on four pillars—People, Purpose, Progress, Performance—this framework sets a clear, powerful standard for delivering transformative value across the entire public sector, including not just the UK Civil Service, but Local Government, NHS, and other public bodies. Networks meeting this standard earn a Digital Accreditation Badge, joining trailblazers who redefine cross-public sector collaboration with enduring influence.
People: Unite and Uplift
A gold-standard network thrives on its members, bridging divides, amplifying every voice, and celebrating the diversity of the Public Sector.
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What We Expect: Diverse membership spanning all grades, departments, and regions. Inclusive access through online and offline channels. Events that foster professional growth and wellbeing.
Why It’s Gold: Diversity drives innovation and resilience, ensuring every perspective fuels meaningful change and strengthens the network’s impact.
Purpose: Ignite a Shared Mission
A top-tier network rallies around a mission that is clear, bold, and aligned with Civil Service or Local Government priorities.
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What We Expect: A member-driven mission statement. Alignment with goals such as inclusion, innovation, or social equity. Relevant, measurable objectives that inspire action.
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Why It’s Gold: A compelling purpose unites members, sustains momentum, and ensures the network delivers on priorities that matter.
Progress: Build Smart, Last Long
The best networks operate efficiently, fostering sustainable collaboration across the Civil Service.
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What We Expect: Secure communication channels for collaboration. Clear governance with Executive or Senior Civil Service (SCS) sponsorship. Partnerships that minimise waste and amplify successes. Connections to priorities like net zero and digital transformation.
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Why It’s Gold: Efficient, well-governed networks endure, maximising resources and fostering lasting connections that drive systemic change.
Performance: Deliver Impact That Echoes
A gold-standard network transforms its community and beyond, delivering measurable results.
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What We Expect: Clear outcomes advancing Civil Service or Local Government strategic priorities (e.g., innovation, inclusion). Tangible achievements through events, ideas, or support. Full alignment with the Civil Service Code or relevant organisational Code of Conduct.
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Why It’s Gold: Measurable impact demonstrates value, inspiring trust and amplifying the network’s influence across the Civil Service and beyond.
Next Steps
To achieve the XGov Gold Standard, networks follow these steps with XGov as their partner:
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Review the Framework: Networks assess their alignment with the four pillars—People, Purpose, Progress, Performance—using XGov’s clear criteria.
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Apply Simply: Networks submit a concise application form, detailing how they meet the standard, supported by evidence such as membership data, event outcomes, or alignment with Civil Service or Local Gov priorities. XGov facilitates secure and straightforward submission.
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Earn Accreditation: The XGov Board of Trustees reviews submissions fairly, offering guidance if needed. Networks achieving the standard receive the Digital Accreditation Badge and access exclusive benefits, with support available for networks of all sizes to meet the criteria.
To ensure sustained excellence, networks are encouraged to consult the handbook’s “Avoiding Common Pitfalls” section for guidance on maintaining engagement and overcoming challenges.
Network leaders of accredited networks will be invited to join the XGov Network Leaders Group and become eligible for the XGov Gold Standard Network Leader’s Accreditation, awarded on an invite-only basis to recognise exceptional leadership.
