Managers of both adult and children's services should be aware of new EU procurement rules, which come into effect next January. The new EU Consolidated Procurement Directive brings together all previous utility, telecom and public procurement Directives, in an overarching framework. Taking years to bring to fruition, it shouldn't be regarded as another piece of unwanted European legislation. And, if used properly, it could help drive reform in a sector which urgently requires modernisation. With some counties spending more than £30m a year on social services procurement, this works out about £20m for adult care and £10m on children's care. When adult care residential care rates are around £500 a week, and children's residential care, commonly at least £3,000 a week - higher in some areas - questions are being asked about the use of resources. The EU Directive threshold is just over £150,000 per contract, so few council contracts will be exempt.
展开▼
