Supplying Goods and Services to Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service
As a public sector organisation the way Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service (DSFRS) procure goods and services is governed by both internal financial regulations and national and European legislation. We have a responsibility to ensure that public money we receive is used as carefully as possible.
The procurement function has become central to the efficiencies agenda and is a fundamental part of delivering value for money. Within the fire and rescue service, the south west region has led the field in innovative procurement and has been pursuing a highly successful strategy to raise procurement standards at both the regional and local (individual service) levels. At a national level, an organisation called Firebuy has been set up by central government to undertake major procurements such as fire appliances. However, a number of contracts let by the South West region have been adopted by Firebuy as interim national solutions; such is the quality of the work we have been achieving.
The Department has professionally qualified staff with a wealth of public and private sector experience. The individual members are responsible for the preparation of tenders, terms and conditions, negotiation, contract drafting and the management of the final contract once it has been awarded and implemented.
The aim of these pages (more below) is to advise how we do business and how the procurement process operates within the Authority.
Advice and Guidance.
Information for potential suppliers.
eTendering procurement solution.
These apply to the majority of contracts awarded by us.
Useful information.
A suppliers approach to this may be evaluated.
Register to keep up-to-date.
Find out more and view a list of awarded contracts.
Nine questions and answers.
Contains our email address.