The rules and regulations that we follow when we buy goods and services.
The value of the goods and services we buy determines how we will do business with you and the rules and procedures that we have to follow.
This helps us to get the best value for money and ensure fair competition for all our potential suppliers.
The rules and procedures we follow are called Contract Standing Orders.
How we buy goods and services
For our lower value purchases under £5,000, one quote is needed.
For purchases over £5,000 - £49,999, we have a more formal procedure and invite three quotes from potential suppliers.
For purchases over £50,000, we either use a framework or advertise the opportunity as a formal tender.
For high value purchases worth over £189,330, we run a formal tender.
The thresholds are based on European legislation, however new laws are planned this autumn for implementation in spring 2024, when the thresholds may change.
These thresholds are:
- Supplies: £189,330 (excluding VAT)
- Services: £189,330 (excluding VAT)
- Works (building or civil engineering activities): £4,733,252 (excluding VAT)
Making our decision
We check our tenders in a fair and transparent way. We set out clearly in the tender document how we will score the tender. This may differ from one contract to another.
We will consider how the tender proposals will deliver the service (quality), the cost of the service (price) and its sustainability.
Where we can, we will always try to offer feedback if your tender is unsuccessful.
The Small Business Friendly Concordat
We are committed to working with small and local businesses and have signed up to the principles of the Small Business Friendly Concordat.
This is a voluntary code of practice, which recognises that small businesses are key local employers and make a significant contribution to the local economy.
How to introduce your company to us
We do not have a centralised purchasing department but we do have a procurement officer who is responsible for implementing our procurement strategy.
If you have any questions about how we buy goods and services, please get in touch using the contact details below.
To find out how you can register your interest in doing business with us, visit our contract opportunities page.
Contact us