Procurement Matters Issue 15

Page 1


A Future for Libraries After a Period of Loss

Smarter Lighting,Safer Communities: Explore our new framework

Contract and Procurement Solutions tailored to your sector

Building Smarter Transport:

Improving bus stops and passenger experience

Page

6

Transforming School

Security Event: Procurement

Services x DMS x Verkada

Page

10

Breaking Barriers: Inclusive Physical Activity for All Children

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19

Frameworks Highlights: A look into some of our frameworks

Page 24

A future for libraries after a period of loss

Across the UK, communities continue to feel the impact of widespread library closures, with 190 libraries shutting their doors in the past five years as councils grapple with financial pressures. For many residents, these buildings were places of sanctuary, connection and crucial digital access.

While closures have caused deep disruption, 2026 marks a turning point A series of national programmes aims to restore and revitalise community library spaces. The Libraries Improvement Fund will support local authorities to refurbish or transform libraries, with funded projects beginning from April 2026.

In addition, the government has pledged to create a library in every primary school by 2029 Together, these initiatives signal hope: an opportunity not only to rebuild physical spaces, but to restore the vital communities so many people have lost.

At Procurement Services, we have a series of frameworks to aid these restoration projects. Visit the frameworks page today to see how we can support the refurbishment of these community libraries

Click here

Supporting Education Through Trusted Procurement

Through our wide range of fully compliant frameworks, schools, academies, colleges and multi-academy trusts can access essential products and services tailored to education settings, all with ease, value for money and peace of mind

Read our education brochure here

Implement a smarter tendering strategy

Andrew Armstrong Emma Purling

using the expertise of our Managed Procurement Service Team, you n maximise your tendering strategy and be confident in your ocurement Our team provides a full range of services, including:

Procurement advisory support

Delivery of the full procurement function, including running compliant procurement processes (PCR2015/PA23)

Delivery of any procurement process, whether it is an Open Tender, Competitive Flexible Procedure or Further Competition

Expert support and consultation for an organisation running their own procedure

“Lee Daniels and his team were able to support us through an MIS tender exercise and guided us through the new regulations, making it a straightforward process, and ensured we were not challenged through the standstill period by providing the companies with details as to why they were unsuccessful”

Jan Rabusic Lee Daniels NEAT Academy Trust

Leasing Solutions framework

At a time where budget pressures and regulatory requirements are increasing, our Financial Leasing Solutions Y23029 framework provides public sector organisations with access to pre-approved, competitively priced leasing solutions for a wide range of assets

We can advise on the most suitable funding options and support your organisation in financing capital purchases through innovative solutions

With strong recognition in the marketplace and access to leading finance providers, we offer manageable, flexible payment terms across multiple Lots, covering different asset categories

Y23029 Financial Leasing Solutions

Framework Lots at a glance

Lot 1–Catering and Domestic Services Equipment

- Catering equipment

- Vending machines

- Water coolers

- See more

Lot 3–Education Services Equipment

- Audio visual equipment

- Classroom furniture

- Gymnasium equipment

- See more

LOT 5–Green Technology Equipment

- Solar

- Heat pumps

- Bio-mass

- See more

LOT 7–Laboratory and Pathology Equipment

- Microscopes

- Mass spectrometers

- Tissue processors

- See more

LOT 9–Temporary and SemiPermanent Buildings

-Portable offices

-Demountable car parks

-Mobile trailers/cabins

-See more

Lot 2–Courier and Logistics Equipment

-Fork lifts

-Pallet jacks

-Containers

-See more

LOT 4–Estates and Facilities / Ground Maintenance Equipment

- Estates plant and machinery

- Waste disposal

- Tractors/trailers

- See more

LOT 6–ICT and Telecommunications Equipment and Software

- Radio - Photocopiers

- Network architecture

- See more

LOT 8–General Medical Equipment

- Nuclear medicine

- MRI scanners

- Surgical robots

- See more

LOT 10–Vehicles

- Lorries - Vans - Coaches

- See more

Building smarter transport:

Improving bus stops and passenger

experience

An important component of public transport is the bus network, particularly the infrastructure that supports it and the funding required to keep it effective and accessible

According to GOVUK, the UK Department for Transport has published bus funding allocations to Local Transport Authorities (LTAs) across England for 2025 to 2026 This includes £670 million in funding to enable LTAs to deliver their Bus Service Improvement Plans An additional £285 million was provided through the Bus Service Operators Grant to maintain services and support delivery

This funding aims to enhance bus services and keep fares down across the country, as part of a broader effort to improve bus infrastructure and services These funds include infrastructure improvements such as bus shelters, real-time information systems, and accessibility upgrades

How do we support this?

A key part of enhancing public transport is ensuring bus shelters are maintained to the highest standards

Our Bus Shelters and Associated Services framework Y22030 make this possible by providing access to a wide range of

solutions, including:

Bus shelters, canopies and walkways

Real-time passenger information systems

Associated services for installation

With six awarded suppliers across two Lots we offer a reliable route to keep your public transport safe and welcoming for public sector customers and maintenance

Meet the Public Sector

Engagement Team

Watch two members of our Public Sector Engagement Team introduce themselves and explain the vital role their team plays in supporting your procurement journey with us

Priya Parmar

Is your organisation protected against ransomware?

Ransomware is one of the more insidious tools cybercriminals are using to compromise the public sector; now more than ever, it’s vital to defend your business against attacks

With our solution, you’ll access the technology to proactively detect, react, and respond to threats, to recover with your data and reputation intact Find out why over 500 public sector organisations decided to protect themselves with Ricoh’s unique solution, click here to learn more.

Ricoh Cybersecurity experts are ready with intelligent solutions aligned to your hybrid working practices

For a friendly chat and expert guidance, why not speak to our public sector cybersecurity lead via Procurement Services.

We’re here to help!

Ricoh is an awarded supplier on our Audio Visual Solutions, Managed Services for Business Solutions, Multi-Functional Devices and Digital Solutions and Records Information Management frameworks

View the frameworks

One of the most immediate benefits of intelligent street light installations is its positive impact on urban safety, with studies showing that well-lit areas linked to a 36% reduction in overall crime rates as reported by the College of Policing Adaptive and responsive street lighting systems enhance visibility in real-time, helping public areas feel safer and remain occupied after dark.

To support these safety benefits, we ’ ve launched our new Street and External Lighting Solutions framework Y23044, designed to help organisations implement lighting systems

This framework facilitates the procurement of a full range of street and external lighting solutions and associated services, including central management systems, consultancy & backoffice support, funding application assistance as well as supply and installation for all public sector organisations

By leveraging this framework, public sector organisations can accelerate the adoption of smarter lighting solutions that make communities safer and more sustainable

Explore the full details today and take the next step toward brighter, smarter streets.

Find out more

Eyes in the Sky Supporting Faster Emergency Response

As reported by Public Sector Executive, the Metropolitan Police has started trialling drones as first responders to support officers attending emergency calls across London.

This initiative aims to enhance public safety by delivering faster, high-definition intelligence, deployed directly from the Met’s control roomarriving within just two minutes.

The drones can assist in various situations, including searching for missing persons, tracking suspects, capturing evidence at crime scenes, and more

As quoted by the Public Sector Executive, Laurence Taylor, Assistant Commissioner & National Lead for Drones said:

“We are building a Met that is more precise and efficient than ever before, and this new technology gives us a vital new tool to tackle crime in the capital ”

Not only is it cheaper and quieter, but it’s also significantly more environmentally friendly than helicopters The high-quality footage allows responders to ensure the right resources are deployed efficiently

Our Emergency Response and Rescue Equipment framework Y23046 is the perfect route for procuring drones or any emergency equipment needed Under our seven Lots, we can support equipment and services for working at heights, restricted and confined spaces, water rescue, thermal imaging, and more!

Explore the framework today and connect with our Public Sector Engagement Team to start your emergency services procurement journey!

Enhancing Search & Rescu

Read about how the Maritime & Coastguard Agency procured drones from our Emergency Response and Rescue Equipment framework.

Following an initial trial using drone technology within the Coa Rescue Service, the next phase looks to formalise our drone respon through the creation of dedicated response teams, allowing to us to evaluate the impact of this technology and understand the opportu available to enhance Search and Rescue operations around the coa UK The procurement of these drones and the associated equipme major step in allowing that evaluation process to begin

Did you catch our podcast episode?

Tune in to hear us unpacking exclusive research from Commercial Services Group, based on insights from over 500 senior public sector procurement professionals

The Importance of an Evacuation Plan

Listen Now

It is essential for all establishments to have a clear and effective evacuation plan to ensure the safe evacuation of all occupants. Individuals with disabilities or temporary impairments that affect their ability to evacuate independently must have a PEEP in place to support a swift and safe exit in the event of a fire.

This is necessary for those who can relate to the following:

People with visual or hearing impairments

People with mobility issues

People experiencing severe PTSD

Those on the autism spectrum

According to GOV.UK,the residential PEEPs process includes a suite of measures:

The responsible person (typically the building owner or manager) identifying residents who need Residential PEEPs.

A person-centred fire risk assessment to understand their particular risks and identify how their fire safety and evacuation can be improved

An emergency evacuation statement of what the resident should do in the event of a fire.

Information for the Fire and Rescue Authority to help inform any operational response and in case they need to undertake evacuation.

An ongoing duty to review the person-centred fire risk assessment / emergency evacuation statement, and the building emergency evacuation plan

ment Services, we have a Fire Safety Products & Services framework Y23025 that can provide access to essments and fire awareness training. With this support in blishments can ensure everyone is safely evacuated in the ire, quickly and with as much ease as possible

Learn more here

Empowering the UK Housing sector to deliver connected services

At Procurement Services, we deliver compliant, high value solutions that help housing associations and public bodies strengthen operations, manage risk and maximise budgets Our solutions span frameworks, category and contract management, digital procurement, leasing, lifecycle management and vehicles, bringing market insight and innovation together to improve supplier performance and accelerate delivery

Digital Procurement & MFD Solutions

Our market leading multifunctional device and digital solutions framework enables safer, faster technology spend. Procurement Services also supports wider digital transformation, supplier partnering, project management, training and installation, this freeing housing teams to modernise with confidence.

Vehicles & Fleet Solutions

From community transport to estates vans and EVs, we design compliant, tailored fleet solutions with flexible lease/purchase options, maintenance support and telematics to improve efficiency. “Managing our fleet has become significantly more streamlined and stress free,the team has gone above and beyond,safeguarding us from unexpected costs.”-Lisa Tobin,Business Manager,Commercial Operations at KCC Highways.

We can equip housing providers with an integrated, scalable toolkit, we can deliver safer, better value homes and services while meeting compliance, sustainability and budget goals

Youth Matters: Government Launches 10‑Year Plan to Rebuild Real‑Life Connections

The UK Government has announced a 10‑year plan to tackle rising youth isolation and rebuild support for young people. The new National Youth Strategy, Youth Matters, is backed by over £500 million and aims to provide young people with “somewhere to go, something meaningful to do, and someone who cares about their wellbeing” as reported by GOVUK

With input from more than 14,000 young people, the strategy responds to sharp declines in youth services, including a 73% drop in local spending and the closure of over 1000 youth centres since 2010. The plan includes building or refurbishing up to 250 youth centres, equipping 2500 organisations, and creating 50 Young Futures Hubs by 2029 to support wellbeing and career development

The government aims to give 500,000 more young people access to a trusted adult and help shift young people away from online isolation toward real life connection.

At Procurement Services, our Playground,Fitness and Sports Equipment and Leisure Facilities framework can help enhance and complete these youth centres and Young Futures Hubs

Get in touch today to start the journey and supply these organisations with the best equipment by excellent suppliers. View the framework here

Post-Implementation Review

What public sector organisations need to know

When IFRS 16 was introduced, it changed the way leases are reported, bringing most leases onto the balance sheet. While this improved transparency, it also created new challenges for public sector organisations – from understanding lease terms to managing the additional accounting workload

Recently, the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) published its postimplementation review of IFRS 16. The review confirms that the standard is generally performing well, but highlights several areas where organisations struggle.

With expert guidance, leasing remains not only a suitable option, but essential to achieving long-term value

Your Complete Cleaning Solution

Public and office buildings are prime environments for the spread of germs and bacteria, given the constant flow of employees, visitors, and contractors using shared spaces and equipment throughout the day From meeting rooms and break areas to restrooms and reception zones, these high-traffic areas often receive only surface-level cleaning during daily maintenance routines.

To ensure a truly hygienic and safe environment, it is essential that all areas undergo regular deep cleaning to a professional standard.

According to GOV.UK, infections can spread through direct contact with an infected area or contaminated surfaces, which is the most common route of cross infection. Preventative measures, such as cleaning and managing the environment safely, is vital

Our Cleaning Services framework Y23005 offers all establishments comprehensive cleaning services, including:

Essential cleaning tasks such as kitchen and bathroom cleaning

Washroom cleaning including refilling consumables

Litter picking and emptying bins

Ad hoc/ one-off deep cleans

And much more!

Our awarded suppliers on this framework can deliver a clean, safe and orderly environment for everyone.

Learn more here

Multi-Functional Devices and Digital Solutions NewCaseStudy

Catch22 has been a customer with Procurement Services Digital for over 20 years; we spoke with them to gain a deeper insight into their experience with the team and our DfE approved framework

As a registered charity, Catch22 is funded by the public sector and local authorities to run their services One challenge they face is that funding may be withdrawn, requiring the organisation to return their MFDs.

This case study details how our account specialist, Cameron, has helped Catch22 in their MFD procurement process, finding the best prices via their awarded supplier, Ricoh

Explore the benefits of using our DfE approved framework and Digital Solutions, and read first hand how Procurement Services Digital can help your organisation

Read the full Case Study

Every sector faces unique pressures. Our flexible approach to contract management helps you achieve compliance, efficiency, and measurable results. Here are two scenarios showing how we adapt to different sectors:

Supporting Universities Through Financial Pressure

Helping Housing Teams Achieve More

Government plans to improve EV charging accessibility Plugging in progress:

Electric vehicle owners across the UK w thanks to new government plans annou charging fairer for renters and those wit

Key proposals include mandating charg planning permission for discreet cross-p ensure fair public charging costs, protec improve connection quality and speed f

Building on this momentum, our Electri framework Y23049 supports public sect includes auditing of existing equipment supply and installation, for public secto

Find out more here

Introducing our new

Budget-Friendly Transport Solution!

At Procurement Services, our Vehicles Team understand the financial pressures and challenges facing the public sector today, especially schools and multi-academy trusts

Whilst costs are rising, funding isn't quite matching up to inflation rates, so finding cost-effective procurement solutions is more important than ever

We created our Used Minibus Solution to provide your educational organisation with the vehicles you need to fit your budget, without compromising on quality.

All vehicles are RAC approved, checked and wheelchair-accessible for inclusion and convenience

Helping to provide your school with the best for less.

Breaking Bar

Inclusive Ph

All Children

A recent Local Government Assoc care-experienced children in its u infrastructure, inclusive environm prevent children from engaging in

Sadly care-experienced children and young people are often a hidden group that is overlooked.This is why we are urging the Government to ensure care-experienced children and young people are a part of its forthcoming physical activity strategy,so we can better support their needs to help them develop and flourish in life.

Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Committee, Cllr Julie Jones-Evans

This aligns closely with the objectives of our Playground,Fitness,Sports Equipment,and Leisure Facilities framework Y23064. The framework provides public sector organisations with a compliant, efficient route to procure high-quality equipment and services that promote physical wellbeing

It covers a wide range of solutions, from playground design and installation to outdoor gym equipment, sports surfaces, and waterplay features Importantly, it incorporates SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) provisions and inclusive design principles, ensuring all children can access engaging, accessible environments

With a strong emphasis on social value, the framework encourages suppliers to deliver community-focused outcomes and long-term impact

Together, we can create inclusive spaces that empower every child to thrive.

Explore the framework

Have you read our previous editions of

PROCUREMENT MATTERS?

Discover a better way to manage your print strategy with our DfE approved Multi-Functional Devices and Digital Solutions framework, designed specifically for education and public sector organisations Trusted by schools across the UK, our framework delivers flexibility, transparency, and long-term value - without the surprises

Whether you ' re reviewing your current setup or planning ahead, we can provide a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your needs, saving you time and ensuring best value

You can book a free Teams consultation with a member of our team and find out how our framework can support your goals

You can also visit our website to explore user guides, our frameworks catalogue, and other digital solutions that support your wider IT goals

No annual price increases, meaning you ’ re able to budget with confidence

Free delivery and collection, ensuring hassle-free logistics

Free d contr Insur accid

Access our Digital Solutions online

No m you p

Free s Basic so yo runni Netw maint no hi Acces leadin

Dedic suppo quote and b

Compliant, Safe & Best Value for Money

We

Pride Ourselves

On: Dedicated Support from Start to Finish:

Compliance: We support schools in navigating the complex landscape of procurement regulations, ensuring that every purchase is fully compliant with statutory and legal requirements. By following established frameworks and aligning with DfE standards as well as local authority policies, schools can be confident that their procurement decisions are both lawful and ethical

Safe Pre-Agreed Terms & Conditions: Our service provides schools with the security of pre-agreed terms and conditions that have been carefully vetted to safeguard their interests This approach eliminates the need for lengthy negotiations with suppliers, saving valuable time and reducing administrative burdens

Benchmarking Service: Through our benchmarking service, schools gain clear evidence of value for money by comparing supplier offers against market standards This ensures transparency between schools and suppliers, fostering trust and fairness in every transaction

Efficiency & Cost Savings: We simplify procurement by streamlining processes and offering easy-to-use frameworks that reduce complexity and administrative workload By combining cost savings with operational simplicity, we help schools achieve more with less, without compromising on quality or compliance

You’ll have a dedicated account manager throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to contract completion and renewals. We’re here to help you find the right solution and manage your contract every step of the way

Our team handles all supplier interactions on your behalf, including complaints and queries, saving you valuable time and resources

With us, you can focus on your priorities in the school whilst we ensure everything runs smoothly with your MFD contracts.

Contact the team today!

At Procurement Services, we are proudly committed to delivering social value, through meaningful purchasing decisions, volunteering days and charitable initiatives! Take a look at some ways we have delivered on our values throughout the past three months

We raised £110 for Breast Cancer Now!

During October last year, teams got together for Breast Cancer Now’s “Wear it Pink” event to raise money for the charity, including wearing pink and pink-themed activities!

Gift donations to the Oliver Fisher Unit!

At our most recent collaboration day, teams across Procurement Services provided donations for the unit and had “Purple Days” in support of Prematurity Awareness Month

We raised £105 for Save the Children!

Teams got into the holiday spirit by wearing their festive jumpers and donating towards Save the Children, who support vulnerable children and families in over 100 countries

Visit our Media Hub to keep up to date on our social value activities!

Visit now

Framework Highlights

Bus Shelters, Real Time Passenger Information (RTPI) & Associated Services Y22030

1st February 2023 – 31st January 2027

This framework provides a compliant and costeffective route to procure bus shelters, RTPI systems, and associated services for the public sector It includes two Lots:

Bus Shelters and Associated Services

Education Management Systems Y25012

1st July 2025 – 30th June 2029

Real Time Passenger Information Systems and Associated Services

Integrated Community Care Equipment & Associated Services Y24008

18th November 2024 – 17th December 2028

This framework provides a fully compliant, costeffective route to procure community care equipment and associated services for the public sector It includes three Lots:

Integrated Community Care Equipment and Associated Services

Technology Enabled Care Products and Services

Wheelchairs, Motorised Mobility Products and Services

Software Products and Associated Services Y23065

1st March 2024 – 29th February 2028

This framework offers a compliant and efficient route to procure a wide range of software solutions and associated services for cloud-based, onpremise, and hybrid environments It covers application and system software categories such as CRM, ERP, HR systems, security software, and virtualisation, along with services like installation, integration, and end-user support

0808 281 9439

This framework offers a compliant and efficient route to procure Education Management Systems (EMS) for schools and multi-group establishments It covers solutions for data management, reporting, and communication, including applications for attendance, safeguarding, HR and payroll, finance, parental engagement, and SEN Associated services include installation, integration, training, and consultancy

IT Hardware, ITAD & Associated Services Y26005

14th November 2025 – 13th November 2029

This framework provides a fully compliant, costeffective, and high-quality route to procure IT hardware, IT asset disposition (ITAD), and associated services for the public sector It includes four Lots: New IT Hardware

Remanufactured and Refurbished IT Hardware IT Asset Disposition Services

One-Stop Shop

Browse through our frameworks and get in contact with our experts today! Visit Here

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