Kibble Education and Care Centre collected two awards at the first annual Supplier Excellence Awards held by Scotland Excel, the centre of procurement expertise for the local government sector in Scotland. Scotland Excel is a non-profit making organisation, funded by all 32 local authorities, and was established in 2008 to work collaboratively with members and suppliers to raise procurement standards, secure best value for customers and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public sector procurement in Scotland.
Kibble was successful in the Excellence in the Communities and Excellence in Innovation categories for our work in delivering secure care places for young people aged between 12 and 18. Our holistic approach integrates wider community services, including education, employment and training services, to improve the life chances of the young people in our care.
The Supplier Excellence Awards is the first programme of its kind in public procurement, and honours suppliers who demonstrate excellence through their participation in Scotland Excel’s national framework contracts which are worth nearly £700 million per annum.
James Gillespie, Head of Service – Safe Centre for Kibble said: “From the outset Kibble has always been a forward thinking organisation, continually striving to develop and adapt to meet the ever changing needs of the young people we serve.
“With deep roots in the local community, we are well aware of the importance of encouraging young people to actively engage and integrate with society.
“To have received not one but two awards, is recognition of Kibble’s commitment to the young people we support on a daily basis and the continued dedication of our staff.”
Councillor Mike Holmes, Convener of Scotland Excel and Depute Leader of Renfrewshire Council, added: “Kibble Education and Care Centre’s holistic and innovative approach demonstrates their commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable young people through education, work experience and support services tailored to their needs.”
A judging panel of 17 procurement experts, elected members and industry representatives from across Scotland were involved in shortlisting the finalists.
A total of 61 entries were received from suppliers across the UK. Of these, 29 finalists were shortlisted to compete in seven award categories, which recognised both small to medium sized (SME) and large businesses.