How we buy goods, services and works
Our Procurement team is here to make sure we get the best value for money whilst following our internal rules and the law. This helps us make the most of our budget and deliver the best services for our customers.
Before we buy anything, the money needs to be agreed in our budget. The way we buy depends on how big, complex or important the purchase is – and our Procurement team will decide the best way to go about it.
We now use a new e-tendering system called In-tend, where we post all tender opportunities. It’s free to register.
This system also manages our contracts. If you already work with us, you’ll get access to this system to help manage your contract with your Accent contact.
As of 24 February 2025, the Procurement Act 2023 replaced the old Public Contracts Regulations 2015. Find out more information on the gov.uk website.
A new Central Digital Platform was also launched on that date. This is where all public contracts are published and managed. Suppliers must register there before bidding for opportunities not only with Accent but across the public sector.
If you want to work with us or already do, here’s what we expect:
· Keep your details up to date on both the In-tend system and the Central Digital Platform.
· Make sure you have the right insurances and accreditations – and be ready to evidence them on request.
· Get to know our values, goals, and policies so we can work well together.
· Visits to our offices and sites are by appointment only. Please don’t turn up without one.
· Never accept verbal or informal orders from Accent colleagues. Only supply goods, services or works once you’ve received a formal purchase/work order.
· Be open and transparent – join regular contract meetings and provide requested information promptly.
· Let us know straight away if something goes wrong.
· Report any concerns to us, especially those related to safeguarding, fraud, bribery, or money laundering in line with Accent’s policies and procedures.
· Tell us about any actual or possible conflicts of interest.
· Follow the law – including:
o The Bribery Act 2010 – don’t offer gifts or hospitality to Accent colleagues.
o GDPR for handling data.
o Equality Act 2010
o Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
o Modern Slavery Act 2015
o And other relevant laws, especially those involving care and responsibility to others.
· We’re working hard to manage rising costs and protect services. We don’t automatically accept price increases. If you do need to raise prices, talk to our Procurement team first.
Make sure you’re familiar with our key policies:
- Standard Terms and Conditions – We usually use our standard terms unless another agreement is in place. We aim to pay valid invoices within 30 days and expect the same of our suppliers.
- Supplier / Contractor Code of Conduct (policy under review)
- Safeguarding Policy and Procedure
- Accent’s Modern Slavery Statement. For further guidance on Modern Slavery visit the gov.uk website.
- Complaints and Compensation Policy
- Data Protection Policy (policy under review)
How to Get in Touch
If you want to introduce your business, discuss products/services, or propose an idea:
Download our Enquiry Form, or
Send it to supplier.engagement@AccentGroup.org
We don’t keep preferred supplier lists, and enquiry forms are stored for a limited time. If your idea could improve our services or offer good value, we may get in touch for more information.
Please don’t send generic marketing materials to start with. We’ll aim to respond within 5 working days to let you know the next steps.
All new supplier contact must go through our Procurement team. As a reminder – office and site visits must be booked in advance.
You can also use the form to report concerns around safeguarding, fraud, bribery or money laundering.
For any queries around payment, please email AccountsPayable@AccentGroup.org