The Gershon Review and subsequent government initiatives on efficiency and value for money have highlighted the importance of effective procurement in public services with local authorities having to demonstrate a 2.5% efficiency gain each year from 2004 to 2007 and now a 3% efficiency gain, all of which must be cashable. The government believes that this can be achieved through various means including effective procurement of capital programmes and maintenance services and reductions in management costs following the introduction of e-government.
Procuring a major contract is often a major task that requires project management or the input of specialist financial advice. 'AWICS' consultants have the necessary experience to support an authority in this process.
For example, Slough Borough Council used 'AWICS' to provide financial advice during their innovative 'Partnership Development Project' that created partnerships with the private sector to deliver excellent building and environmental services. We have also assisted Birmingham City Council in developing a value for money procurement strategy and have provided training in value for money for organisations including Cambridge City Council and Salford City Council.
Adrian Waite and Stephen Harriott have both spoken at recen seminars on Sustainable Business Plans and the Efficiency Agenda and Achieving Efficiencies and Value for Money in Social Housing.
We are well placed to offer effective financial advice on procurement.