Buying better outcomes: mainstreaming equality considerations in procurement - a guide for public authorities in England

Advice and Guidance
 

Who is this page for?

  • Public sector

Which countries is it relevant to?

    • England flag icon

      England

    • |
    • Scotland flag icon

      Scotland

    • |
    • Wales flag icon

      Wales

First published: 26 May 2022

Public authorities spend £236 billion each year on buying goods, works or services from other organisations across every sector. This purchasing power can be used by public authorities as a way to advance equality and, where appropriate, achieve wider social benefits, such as creating training or employment opportunities.

The Equality Act 2010 (the Act) sets out anti-discrimination law and the requirements of the public sector equality duty (PSED). Compliance with the PSED should help public authorities ensure that the goods, services and works they procure are fit for 
purpose – thus ensuring they meet the needs of their users. As such it should also be seen as an effective tool for improving economy, efficiency and effectiveness and therefore value for money.

This guidance explains how public authorities may approach the task of ensuring that they comply with their PSED obligations at different stages of the procurement cycle and takes you through equality issues that you may need to consider at each stage. Our website also includes links to useful reference materials such as complementary guidance products, case studies and training modules.

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