Frameworks
UK public sector frameworks
A directory of the UK public sector frameworks suppliers can join to win work — G-Cloud, Digital Outcomes, CCS agreements, NHS frameworks and the major buying consortia.
Technology
G-Cloud
Crown Commercial Service
The Crown Commercial Service agreement for buying cloud software, hosting and cloud support through an online catalogue.
Digital Outcomes (DOS)
Crown Commercial Service
The Crown Commercial Service agreement for buying digital teams, specialists and outcomes through competition.
Recruitment
Professional services
Construction & estates
Buying consortia
ESPO Frameworks
ESPO
A public sector buying organisation offering frameworks across goods and services used by councils, schools and the NHS.
YPO Frameworks
YPO
A publicly-owned buying organisation with frameworks spanning supplies, services and works for the public sector.
NEPO Frameworks
NEPO
The North East Procurement Organisation's frameworks, used by councils and public bodies in the region and beyond.
KCS Procurement Services
Kent County Council
A public sector buying service offering frameworks across a range of goods and services.
Health
How public sector frameworks work
A framework is a pre-agreed arrangement between buyers and a set of approved suppliers. Once you're on it, public bodies can award you work (a 'call-off') without running a full tender each time — so frameworks are one of the most efficient routes into government revenue.
Frameworks vs DPS
A framework usually has a fixed list of suppliers and a closed window to join. A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) stays open, so you can apply at any time. Both let buyers run lighter mini-competitions among approved suppliers.
Call-offs
Buyers award contracts under a framework either by direct award (against published criteria) or a mini-competition between appointed suppliers. Winning a place is step one; winning call-offs is where the revenue is.
Lots and categories
Most frameworks are divided into lots by service or region. You only bid for the lots you can deliver, and you're evaluated against others in that lot — so picking the right lots matters.
How to get on a framework
- 1
Track the refresh
Frameworks are re-tendered on a cycle (often every 2-4 years). Miss the window and you wait years — so watch for the pipeline and tender notices early.
- 2
Prepare your evidence
Most frameworks need the same core evidence: accounts, insurances, accreditations, policies and relevant case studies. Build a bid library once and reuse it.
- 3
Apply to the right lots
Apply only for lots you can genuinely deliver and price competitively — overreaching weakens your whole submission.
- 4
Win call-offs
Once appointed, stay visible to buyers and respond fast to mini-competitions. A place on a framework is permission to bid, not a guarantee of work.
Frequently asked questions
What is a public sector framework?+
A framework agreement is a pre-procured arrangement that approves a set of suppliers to deliver defined goods or services to public bodies. Buyers then award contracts (call-offs) under it without a full tender each time.
What's the difference between a framework and a DPS?+
A framework typically has a fixed supplier list and a closed application window. A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) remains open throughout its life, so new suppliers can join at any point. Both are compliant routes to award under the Procurement Act 2023.
How do I get on a framework like G-Cloud or a CCS agreement?+
You apply when the framework is tendered, meeting its selection criteria and submitting for the relevant lots. Open systems like G-Cloud refresh regularly; others only open every few years, so tracking the refresh date is essential.
Does being on a framework guarantee work?+
No. A framework place gives you the right to be considered for call-offs, but buyers still choose between appointed suppliers by direct award or mini-competition. You have to stay active and competitive to win the work.
Can SMEs win framework places?+
Yes. Many frameworks have lots sized for SMEs and regional suppliers, and the Procurement Act 2023 strengthens the push to open public procurement to smaller businesses. The key is matching your capabilities to the right lots.
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