Suffolk Coastal is responsible for providing a wide range of
services which means we have a considerable need to procure
goods and services. Effective procurement supports us in
achieving
our key priorities and helps us to deliver high quality
services that meet the current and future needs of local people,
based on value for money and making best use of public funds.
How to do business with us
To find out more about doing business with Suffolk Coastal
select from the links below:
Our approach to procurement
We have to meet contract regulations and ensure that we are
providing equal opportunity as well as achieving the best
quality at the best price. Our key principles for procurement are
set out in our
Procurement Strategy (new window PDF
22KB)
We recognise that lowest price is not always necessarily the
best solution. Therefore, purchasing decisions will take into
account other factors such as the economic and environmental
impacts of goods and services. In particular, Suffolk Coastal:
- encourages competition and welcomes bids from new and
established suppliers;
- where possible, will support and encourage local suppliers to
compete for Council work;
- supports sustainable, environmentally friendly practices, and
expects its suppliers to follow practices that take into account
the environmental impact of their products and services at all
stages of its lifecycle.
- aims to ensure that organisations which provide services on its
behalf comply with equal opportunities legislation and promote
equality of opportunity;
- seeks to achieve continuing improvement in value for money,
based on the whole life costs and quality of the goods and services
it provides; and
- helps to improve the competitiveness of suppliers and supports
the local economy.
Without distorting competition, we will also look favourably on
companies that embrace e-procurement as a way of doing business and
provide good management information. As part of the Council's
commitment to openness, integrity, and equality, the Council has a
number of policies including ones on whistleblowing, diversity, and
environmental purchasing. Follow the link to the Council's policies, plans and strategies.
Where appropriate, we are keen to work with other local authorities
and partners to maximise economies of scale and deliver cost and
service efficiencies. Suppliers should also note that we are
supported by initiatives introduced by the
Centre of
Excellence - East (new window) which also tenders for the
provision of goods and services.
Support for small businesses
Suffolk Coastal supports the national procurement concordat for
small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). The concordat is a
statement of principles to encourage effective trade between local
authorities and small businesses. Follow this link to read the
SME Procurement Concordat (new window PDF
33KB) in full.
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