Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spends approximately £15 million a year on the procurement of goods, services and works from a diverse range of suppliers.
It is our public duty to ensure that this money is spent in the most effective way whilst delivering value for money and complying with our statutory duty.
As a public sector organisation, the way in which we procure is governed by both internal regulations and national legalisation.
Collaboration
The Service undertakes collaborative procurement with fire authorities both nationally and within the South West region, other emergency services, local authorities and other public bodies. We also make use of contracts awarded by other bodies on behalf of the public sector, such as those provided by Crown Commercial Services and other public buying organisations.
Procurement process
The Service must follow the National and local level regulations including the Public Procurement Regulations when procuring goods, services and works, and must ensure that the principles of transparency and fairness are applied throughout all stages of the procurement processes.
The procurement procedures to be utilised will depend on the estimated value of the contract. Our procedural flowchart for goods, services and works provides information on our current procurement procedures.
The Service may use a compliant framework to purchase goods, works and services. Typically, these are available from Crown Commercial Services or other public buying organisations. If a framework is used, the guidelines for that framework will be followed. We have an agreed set of Standard Terms and Conditions.
Contract opportunities
Any supplier interested in pursuing business opportunities with the Service should visit the Bluelight e-Procurement Hub , where they can register free of charge as a new supplier.
Registration also enables them to participate and have access to any quotes or tenders let by the Service, as well as other participating member authorities within the emergency service sector. You may also like to view the Government’s Contracts Finder web page.
The Service generally encourages competition and welcomes bids from new and established suppliers. Contracts must be awarded on the basis of the most economically advantageous offer. The Service cannot discriminate in favour of local suppliers, but will provide all suppliers with encouragement and advice on how to compete for contracts.
Existing contracts
The Service has existing contracts in place. In accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act details of the contract, title, start and end date is accessible through a contracts database.
The Sell2uk In-Tend Site enables a search facility on current contracts that have been awarded. The site also enables searches for other contracts let by participating Member Authorities within the Emergency Service Sector.
Procurement contact
If you require any further information, please email [email protected]