Buyer support for public sector during pandemic

Crown Commercial Service (CCS), the UK’s biggest public procurement organisation, has put in place a series of measures to help public services access the support they need during the coronavirus pandemic.

This includes a new ​online resource​ which brings together information, advice and guidance for public and third sector buyers, as well as those supplying goods and services.

The website gives clear and concise information on how CCS can support organisations to maintain vital services for communities across the UK.

Since the start of the outbreak, CCS has received thousands of offers from suppliers who can provide goods and services to support public sector organisations in managing their response. These suppliers have been contacted by CCS for further details of what is available, and the offers collected in a ​catalogue of supplier offers​.

The catalogue contains a range of offers including free legal advice, building materials, warehouse space, staff recruitment and many more. Each is categorised by the type of offer and the region it is offered in, and is being updated daily. The catalogue does not contain offers of PPE and other medical devices, which are being sourced separately. Further advice can be found on the website which is updated regularly.

CCS recommends customers continue to use existing commercial agreements, where they meet the requirement, first. Advice on the best way to do this can be accessed by emailing info@crowncommercial.gov.uk​ and including ‘URGENT COVID-19 PROCUREMENT’ in the subject line of the email.
   
Customers requiring the latest information, advice and guidance on the CCS' response to the coronavirus outbreak can also ​sign up for a dedicated coronavirus newsletter.​