Public sector - role and values

The public sector comprises of a series of sub-sectors that directly deliver or facilitate the delivery of key public services for citizens. They include:

• Central government
• National Health Service (NHS) and local trusts
• UK government departments such as HM Revenue & Customs and Ministry of Defence
• Key public services such as the Police, Fire and the Judiciary
• National Assembly for Wales, Northern Ireland Assembly and Scottish Executive
• Local authorities
• Universities and colleges

Each year, the public sector buys a vast amount of goods and services from external sources. This may include basic supplies to specialist services or paying contractors to provide services to customers on its behalf.

The public sector can be a good customer for your organisation:

• Scale – the public sector is a very large market with a wide range of needs that is always seeking to improve its service delivery and find new suppliers.
• Shared values – there can be a shared value system between the sectors in terms of delivery of public services.
• Transparency – the public sector has to be fair, honest and professional in the way they choose suppliers and in any dealings.
• Continuous demand – even during an economic downturn public services continue to be delivered, thus providing a relatively longstanding, stable customer base.
• Prompt payment – they have to pay promptly, usually within 30 days of receiving a valid invoice or in line with other agreed contract terms.
• Best value – there is a growing market opportunity in public sector procurement as the public sector strives to ensure better public service delivery for its citizens.