CONTRACT MANAGEMENT
While many SMEs already deliver social value in practice, the formal documentation and impact measurement processes could prove burdensome. Just days after the act went live, a coalition of organisations signed an open letter calling for urgent reform in public sector procurement, highlighting ongoing challenges despite the introduction of the new Procurement Act.
The letter, led by Paper, Research and Design Studio, stressed the need for a procurement system that prioritises long-term value and service quality over short-term cost savings. It emphasises that a balanced approach would not only improve public services but also ensure better returns for taxpayers.
Mark Goddard, Co-founder of Paper, said:“ The new Procurement Act claims it will open up public procurement to new entrants such as small businesses and social enterprises so that they can compete for and win more public contracts.
“ But for those of us who have been doing this work for nearly a decade, we’ re not asking for a leg up as if we’ re new entrants. We’ re asking for a system that’ s fair and transparent.
“ Public sector procurement should be about delivering real value and improving services, not just finding the cheapest option. A system that prioritises expertise and long-term outcomes will ultimately serve the public better.”
106 February 2026