Stirling Council has launched a new digital portal that allows community organisations to submit requests for benefits linked to council contracts, ensuring local priorities are embedded in procurement.
How the Portal Works
Organisations can submit requests for community benefits, which will be assessed and added to a list maintained by the council and published on the portal. Suppliers can then access the portal and commit to delivering these requests as part of their tender submissions. The council will monitor the delivery of these benefits, offering additional support as needed.
Community-Led Procurement
Convener of Stirling Council’s Community Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Brian Hambly, said: “Local residents understand the needs and priorities of their communities better than anyone. The introduction of this digital portal ensures this is fully embedded in our procurement process, with local groups and organisations having a direct link to suppliers on how community benefit is delivered in their areas.”
He added: “From improving play areas and venues to offering training and employment opportunities, these projects can be transformative for communities and help deliver better economic, social, and environmental outcomes across Stirling. I would encourage eligible organisations to visit the portal, consider the criteria, and start submitting their requests as soon as possible.”
Eligibility and Thresholds
The council also considers community opinion on contracts above £50,000, but the portal is open to requests from community organisations, charities, third sector organisations, voluntary organisations, and social enterprises.
Success Story: Kippen Village Hall
One highlighted project benefiting from the community-led procurement system is the refurbishment of Kippen Village Hall, which brought the previously neglected facility back into wider use. The volunteer team raised £200,000 for the project.
Frances Carlaw, chairwoman of the Kippen Village Hall Volunteer Committee, said: “Kippen Village Hall has undergone a massive refurbishment project amounting to well over £200,000 raised over 18 months. Stirling Council was key to getting us started with recommendations for suppliers who did work for the council and were also prepared to work for the community.”
She added: “Over £20,000 of work was donated as gifts and services in kind from council contacts towards internal building works and asphalting, allowing access for disabled users and drivers, among many other projects. I would urge any small community group to walk this path to savings and professional help. We could not have completed the works without it.”
Residents can access the portal at www.stirling.gov.uk/community-life-and-leisure/community-benefits/.
