Q1. Please provide your LA definition for “local” in regard to the procurement of goods and services. Note: if you do not have a specific definition, please offer guidance to ASC providers as to how they should consider this in regard to supporting your LA.
DCC does not have a specific definition for local. It is acknowledged that where possible service for ASC will be procured locally due to the nature of the services. However where this is not possible ASC may seek placements out of area, bit this could mean in the wider Devon footprint in the first instance. There will be time that placements have to be made on other LAs due family circumstances or to meet need.
Goods are generally procured in the best way possible and this may include local where possible, this is balanced against cost, with considerations as described at q5
Q2. Please provide your LA definition for “minority” in instances such as minority-owned businesses and similar contexts. Note: if you do not have a specific definition, please offer guidance to ASC providers as to how they should consider this in regard to supporting your LA.
In term of race we provide the following guidance which suggests avoiding using the term as a general description Diversity Guide – Race and Ethnicity – Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (devon.gov.uk)
‘Minority ethnic’ or ‘ethnic minorities’ on its own should be avoided as globally, and in some districts in the UK, Black and Asian people are not a minority. The term ‘minority’ can also give the impression of being marginal or less important.
Q3. Please state any energy commitments your LA are implementing over the next 1-3 years, and what you require from ASC providers to help achieve your LA commitments to net zero carbon ambitions etc.
This information is available online at Environmental policy – Environment (devon.gov.uk)
Q4. Please can you provide a copy of, or a link to your current ESG policy statement, guidance, support and/or commitments or requirements as an LA.
This information is available online at Environmental policy – Environment (devon.gov.uk)
Q5. Please provide information relating to any requirements necessary in respect of ESG for ASC providers to work with your LA, and state any weighting or scoring this may have on your decision to work with such ASC providers now or in the future.
We complete, where proportionate, a pre procurement key themes check assessment. This will amongst over themes explore this area and identify bespoke questions to be raised related to the procurement product or service area. The invitation to tender has standard template questions for bidders to answer and helps to identify areas for further development with that supplier following contract award. That is our desire to work with suppliers during the contract award period in developing this theme amongst others.