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Getting ready for the new Procurement Act – pre-implementation Checklist
Four areas have been identified where early consideration and action will get contracting authorities in the best shape to hit the ground running:
- processes and policies
- systems
- people
- transition.
This checklist runs through each of the areas in more detail and is good to share with those who have less day-to-day dealings with procurement. Please share within your relevant teams, those working on contracts and to your suppliers.
National Association of Fostering Partners (NAFP) - briefing
This briefing is aimed primarily at local authority commissioning colleagues and strategic partners. The messages shared in this briefing are informed by the discussions with members and partners focusing on commissioning and contracting arrangements, referrals, recruitment and retention and all the latest updates in the fostering world.
Rogue business rates agents
The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is urging businesses to protect themselves from rogue business rates agents. VOA is aware of false claims that the deadline for appeals to the 2023 rating lists is 30 June. Businesses can challenge their valuation if they think it’s incorrect and are generally able to challenge their property valuation on the 2023 list at any time until March 2026.
Most agents are reputable and provide a good service, but a small minority act in bad faith. Businesses should be cautious of any agent who tries to pressure them to make a decision or sign a contract, makes claims about ‘unclaimed credits’ or similar or demands large sums of money up front.
The VOA has produced a checklist to help businesses if they want to use a business rates agent. If individuals are concerned about potential misrepresentation by agents, send any evidence to ccaservice@voa.gov.uk.
Councils are encouraged to share this information with businesses in their area.
Stop Slavery Blueprint Toolkit updated
The Shiva Foundation has updated their Stop Slavery Blueprint Toolkit, which sets out the key principles to be embedded into hotel and other hospitality businesses to address modern slavery and exploitation. The new version provides detailed guidance and recommendations on statements, supply chain risks, labour risks, and reporting and remediation. It also offers guidance on collaboration with suppliers, business partners, and local organisations, along with various templates, such as a training package, that can be adapted to individual businesses.
Harrow Council supporting local businesses with apprenticeships
Harrow Council has assisted local businesses by covering the cost of apprenticeship qualifications and providing mentoring and training. Since 2023, the Council has successfully placed more than 60 apprentices across the borough, helping career development and supporting local businesses.
16 July Building Centre, 26 Store Street, London, WC1E 7BT | In person
Webinars throughout July – November | Virtual
15 -17 October 2024 | In person/Virtual
19 November 2024 | Novotel London West
27 - 29 November 2024 | Arena and Convention Centre (ACC) Liverpool
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The LGA's membership magazine, 'first', is delivered free each month to just under 17,000 councillors and local authority chief executives. Access first online to browse all news articles, features and opinion pieces, including those from past issues.
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