Member Article

New possibilities in social housing procurement

Millions of pounds worth of contracts in the social housing sector for local businesses to bid for are set to be showcased.

The event, hosted by NE Procurement and supported by Thirteen Group, is aimed at attracting building contractors, large and small, to take part in shaping a brand new procurement framework for housing investment and repair and maintenance works.

The free event, which will take place on Wednesday March 2 at Hudson Quay in Middlesbrough, is aimed at contractors who repair and maintain homes.

Attendees will have an opportunity to help shape the framework to ensure that it meets the social values, including creating employment and training opportunities and community engagement that are so important to NE Procurement and its social housing partners.

Rod Brasington, chief executive of NE Procurement, said: “This event gives contractors an opportunity to make a real difference to a framework they may be using in the near future.

“The new framework is expected to provide opportunities to bid for more than £30m of work each year with partners of NE Procurement, so it is relevant for both small and large businesses.”

It is proposed to split the framework by geographical regions into areas for Teesside, County Durham, Tyne & Wear and Northumberland ensuring local firms have a real opportunity to work in their regional areas.

There will be two sessions at the event – one aimed at major works and principal contractors and the other for SMEs. There will also be the opportunity to find out more about NE Procurement, its members and get their advice on working as a framework partner of the organisation.

Russell Thompson, director of property services at Thirteen Group, said: “Social value is incredibly important to us and this includes ensuring we maximise our contribution to the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of those living in our communities through our business activities. It is vital that these values are shared with our suppliers and they understand our ethos.

“We are determined our investments, development programmes and regeneration projects should benefit not only our tenants, but also make a significant contribution to the local economy and jobs market.

“We are working in partnership with NE Procurement to outline the contract opportunities available and work with contractors to shaping a framework that benefits everyone, including community involvement is key to building long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships.”

To find out more and to register for the event, please visit neprocurement.org.uk or email info@neprocurement.com.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Prosper .