the council is experiencing sustained financial pressure, with an increasing demand for services and reduced funding
we recognise that competition through procurement helps maximise the value of our spend with providers
we will explore opportunities to generate revenue and reduce costs, without putting public funds and services at risk
Safeguarding the vulnerable
the council has a duty to safeguard vulnerable residents eligible for social care and other health-related services. The complexity of needs and demand are both growing, within a difficult market
we will monitor suppliers and have controls in our contracts to protect vulnerable service users and ensure quality
we will provide support to suppliers who need it, identifying any concerns and how they can be addressed
Service quality
the council will procure the quality of services needed to deliver the outcomes identified in the Corporate Plan
we will define our requirements clearly so that contracts are easy to understand
Market sufficiency
the council's suppliers range from large multinational companies to local charities, with some finding it difficult to remain sustainable in the current financial climate
we will work with suppliers and service users to shape a vibrant, competitive market encouraging SME participation. This will be supported by planning to minimise the effects of any supplier failure
Sustainability
climate change, plastic pollution and the use of natural resources are important issues the council has a duty to consider, both with regard to its own operations and those of suppliers
we will ensure suppliers consider how to minimise their impact on the environment and adopt sustainable business practices
Commercial management
we will ensure commercial terms hold suppliers to account while striking a balance that is fair to both parties
our contracts will protect the interests of the council while providing sustainable commercial opportunities for suppliers
we will favour open-book arrangements, and our contract terms will reflect the size and value of the contract and the market
pur procurement processes will be efficient, and we will work with commissioning colleagues to let contracts promptly
Legal compliance
the council operates in a regulated environment where the consequences of getting things wrong are costly
we will ensure we have the skills, practices and capability to effectively manage risk when making commercial and procurement decisions
