A new online supplier capability tool has been launched to help Torbay businesses who are interested in securing public sector contracts.

Led by the Torbay Community Wealth Building Board and created by procurement leads from across Torbay Council, South Devon College and Torbay & South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, the online diagnostic tool allows companies to measure their capability and how ready they are to supply into the local public sector.

The free tool is designed to ensure businesses understand what bidding for public sector contracts involves and the steps they need to take to successfully meet the required standards and criteria.

To take part, participants complete a simple online questionnaire and answer a series of questions which are necessary when considering or bidding for public sector contracts, including questions around business operation and performance.

Participants are then provided with feedback for every answer which can help them to identify any gaps and implement the right measures to their future bid for public sector contracts.

To use the new diagnostic tool, businesses simply need to visit torbaysuppliertool.co.uk

Councillor Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Services and Economic Growth for Torbay Council, said: ‘‘This new diagnostic tool will enable more local businesses to compete for public sector contracts, helping to level the playing field for small to medium enterprises and providing them with new business opportunities. We’re proud to launch new initiatives like this which demonstrate our commitment to Community Wealth Building in Torbay and to creating an inclusive local economy where wealth is locally owned and benefits local people.’’

If you want to find out more about being a Torbay Council supplier visit www.torbay.gov.uk/business/procurement