How we procure

How we procure

Understand how we procure and stay informed with official notices and updates.

Our procurement approach

We follow a structured approach to procurement to ensure transparency, legal compliance, and best value in everything we buy. This helps us deliver effective, ethical, and efficient public services.

Every procurement project is different, so the method we use depends on factors such as contract value, complexity, level of market competition, and the urgency or innovation required.

We may run competitive tendering processes, use framework agreements or dynamic markets, or, where appropriate, make direct awards. Our approach aligns with the requirements of the Procurement Act 2023, the Provider Selection Regime 2024 (for relevant health and care services), and other applicable UK procurement legislation. Our team ensures that every process is fair, proportionate, and legally compliant.

Our procurement pathway

We follow a four-stage procurement process that guides each project from early planning to contract management:

Plan

We identify the need, assess the market, and develop a clear sourcing strategy. Early engagement with suppliers helps us understand market capacity, innovation, and potential risks.

We may publish a Preliminary Market Engagement Notice on the Central Digital Platform to invite early input.

Define

We shape the tender documentation, set evaluation criteria, and prepare for going to market. At this stage, we ensure our requirements are clear, measurable, and aligned to Council priorities.

Procure

We publish the tender opportunity and invite suppliers to submit their tenders. These are assessed fairly based on price, quality, social value, and other relevant factors.  Once the evaluation is complete, we award the contract and publish a Contract Award Notice on the Central Digital Platform.

Manage

Once a supplier is appointed, we monitor contract performance, manage payments and any agreed changes, and ensure the contract delivers the intended outcomes. For contracts over £5 million, we publish performance information and KPIs as required by the Procurement Act 2023.

Contract value and thresholds

The approach we take is determined by the total lifetime value of the contract, including any potential extensions.  This ensures the sourcing route is proportionate to the size, complexity, and risks of the purchase, and meets relevant thresholds set out in the Procurement Act 2023.

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