New Supplier Charter will strengthen partnerships across Lancashire

Every year, the council commissions more than £1 billion of services. From maintaining highways and supporting vulnerable people to delivering specialist services, organisations of all sizes help provide services that residents rely on every day.

The Charter sets out what suppliers can expect from the council and what the council expects in return. Developed in collaboration with suppliers, partners and council colleagues, it aims to streamline working with the council through clearer communication, earlier engagement and a more consistent approach.

It sits at the heart of ensuring that our services continue to deliver value for money.

The Charter also reinforces the council’s commitment to supporting Lancashire based businesses, voluntary organisations and social enterprises, recognising the contribution they make to Lancashire’s economy and communities.

To support the launch, the council is holding its first Supplier and Partner Forum on Monday 14 July at County Hall, Preston.

The forum is open to organisations that already work with the council, as well as those interested in doing so for the first time. It will give attendees the opportunity to hear about future commissioning priorities, meet council officers, learn more about upcoming opportunities and ask questions about working with Lancashire County Council.

County Councillor David Dwyer, cabinet member for Resources, Property and Efficiency, said:

"With more than 1.2 million residents to support, we work alongside businesses, charities and organisations across Lancashire that are already making a real difference in their communities. We want to make it as straightforward as possible for them to work with us.

"The Lancashire Supplier Charter is a new way of working together. It explains what suppliers can expect from the council, what we’ll expect from them and how we’ll build positive working relationships that benefit Lancashire residents.

"Our inaugural Supplier and Partner Forum is an opportunity for businesses, charities and organisations to meet our commissioning teams, hear about future opportunities and find out more about working with the council. Whether you’re an existing supplier or you’re interested in working with us for the first time, we’d be pleased to welcome you."