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  steve loftus January 20, 2009 at 9:36pm

  having held a town council contract for many years,we find that helping a lot of the local sports clubs "in their hour of need",does a lot for our standing with the council and the public.
  we actually communicate with all the clubs ,better than they communicate between themselves(mainly because of their staff turnover each year,as most are volunteers ,and we know schedules better than they do.
  we have done a lot of free gratis work for these clubs,and most ,very kindly give us a mention in the local press/news letter or an advertising hoarding at the ground.
  old peoples homes,schools and special schools are also on our client list,all of which receive special treatment in their own way.i must say,a lot has to do with the great communication and relationship our guys have with the customers when on site.
  its a great question,it would not put us off tendering,and you would always get a positive response from us.
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  steve loftus January 21, 2009 at 9:18am

  may i also say,using contractors would spare you from buying/servicing machines,risk assessments,method statements,fuel costs,paye costs,storage facilities,holiday cover,discounted plants and materials,access to quality feeds and chemicals,spray license,chainsaw/machine qualifications,waste disposal area....................its a long list.call Christian DuPont at vgc ltd for some free advice about the pros and cons of contractors 01730 893999.
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  dgeorgea January 22, 2009 at 9:10am

  Thanks for the reply Steve.
  
  With larger companies I would expect them to understand the value in being involved in the community they are serving. Although this is something I took the lead on and introduced as part of building a consistant business model there are aspects which concern me.
  
  It is often easier for larger companies and non profit organisations to meet these type of criteria, it can be more difficult for new, smaller or single person companies to have the time or resources to be involved in non profit work.
  
  One concern is that these type of companies will be put off. After all if none of the tenders are able to meet this criteria then it does not become a factor. And while we would give preferential consideration to a bid that has met this criteria as part of the vetting process we might decide there is a social value in deciding to support a small business by providing regular work. A lot would depend on what is being tendered for and their ability to provide the service.