When Charnwood Borough Council's environmental services contract was coming to an end it was felt that it was time for the contract to be updated and the market tested. Through a review and subsequent tendering process a new contractor was awarded which aims to save £2.4 million in its first two years of existence.

The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) has been working with energy and procurement professionals across public sector organisations since July 2007 to help them to Buy Smarter and use less energy through setting up the Pan Government Energy Project (PGEP). Following this work, it has been proven that organisations increase savings and mitigate risks through adopting an aggregated, flexible, risk managed approach to all energy procurement.

The public sector currently spend around £3.8 billion per annum on Electricity and Gas - which equates to approximately 7% of UK total consumption!

Currently 66% of all public sector volumes are being procured through a Pan Government recommended solution. Early findings for the project identified the following:

• 250 OJEUs for energy contracts were issued by public sector organisations within a two year period;
• No common Terms and Conditions;
• No common requirements;
• Multiple channels to a few major suppliers;
• 50% public spend not-aggregated.

Over the last two years significant improvements have been made to safeguarding adults in Coventry. Arrangements are in place to protect individuals promptly and effectively where allegations of abuse and neglect are made. Our prevention strategy 'dignity and respect not abuse and neglect' is now fully in place.

This case study reflects the journey we have taken, and in the spirit of developing and consolidating good practice, sharing the lessons we have learnt.

In March 2010, the Borough of Wellingborough undertook a Town Centre Clean Up in partnership with the Police and Fire Service as part of Operation Guardian to help reduce the perception of anti-social behaviour and fear of crime.

The week was very successful and Wellingborough now plan to build on this and maintain this focus by promoting their 'No Excuses' litter campaign which lasts all year. In addition, Wellingborough are targetting their work with the Probation Service to remove graffiti from underpasses and also target litter hotspots - some with land in private ownership and the Youth Forum is undertaking its 3rd 'Big Clean Up' Exercise which the Council is support.

Click on the following links to read Wellingborough's case study and newletter:

Wellingborough Town Centre Clean Up - March 2010.pdf

Spring Link newsletter.pdf