The programme has been well-received so far with more than 50 associations having signed up for the programme which ends in March 2019.

The programme helps associations improve how they procure not just construction but also goods and services. Scotland Excel can often signpost associations to existing frameworks that can offer more competitive rates without the need for full procurement exercises. Many associations have welcomed advice about how to work with supported businesses and Scotland Excel are working with associations to develop new frameworks in a variety of areas from asbestos removal to care staff.

Colin Taylor of Scotland Excel, which is delivering the programme, said: “After a successful pilot in 2016 there was widespread support for a mainstream programme across Scotland. We use the ‘PCIP’ tool (Procurement and Commercial Improvement Programme) to help associations understand their strengths and weaknesses and then work with them to improve those areas where there are opportunities.”

Charlie Millar of Cassiltoun Housing Association said: “It has been a worthwhile exercise reviewing our approach to procurement… we will now move forward by implementing the areas for improvement identified. It is important that our tenants and other service users are aware that we take very seriously how we spend their rent, seek best value, monitor and look to see how we can improve on achieving greater value for money.”

Neil Munro of Prospect Community Housing added: “We found the whole PCIP process a very rewarding experience for us to participate in. The pre-assessment visit and feedback by Scotland Excel staff helped demystify and clarify what was to be expected during the assessment itself. Working closely with Scotland Excel allowed us to concentrate on the policies and procedures we have with regard to procurement and identify the areas we want to develop and enhance going forward.”

It is a recommendation of the ‘Review of Scottish Public Sector Procurement in Construction’ that all organisations which procure construction using public resources undergo an assessment of this kind. Scottish Ministers have accepted that recommendation and this is a great opportunity to satisfy that requirement free of charge.

Sharon Keenan of Clydebank Housing Association summed up her experience: “We are delighted to have embarked on the PCIP process in conjunction with Scotland Excel.  Although daunting at first and involving a bit of work, which we would have been required to do at some point anyway, the process itself was simple and straight forward.

“Scotland Excel were fantastic at guiding us through the exercise and we were able to easily devise and work through a comprehensive action plan. It certainly was extremely beneficial and well worth the effort and we are now well placed to continue in our procurement journey in terms of knowledge and practices and we thank all at Scotland Excel for devoting their time to us and the Scottish Government for funding the exercise.”

If you wish to participate in this free programme or want more information, please contact: housing@scotland-excel.org.uk.