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We understand that securing the best value, quality and service is key when procuring and contracting for the public sector. Your procurement team is frequently sourcing support from the private, third and other public sector organisations and contracts are often complex.

Effective procurement, contracting and outsourcing need a commercially effective, risk-aware and future-proofed solution. Paying close attention to the details pays off in the long term, and legal experts, adept at securing the most effective commercial arrangements will help ease the process, provide clarity and ensure the right outcome for your organisation.

From framework agreements to contracting services including IT, facilities management or construction, to developing new corporate structures or trading companies, our specialist commercial lawyers are here to help. Our breadth and depth of experience means we are able to advise on creating agreements linked to high performance.

We have a multi-disciplinary team who can take a 360-degree view of your needs. Whether it’s setting up ‘light touch’ arrangements or a comprehensive contract, we are skilled and experienced at working smart with your suppliers, to reach the right outcome for everyone.

Our experience in sorting out contracts which have not been performed in accordance with their terms has helped to draft future proofed arrangements and to provide a variety of options for risk and reward.

Our services

Procurement
  • Advice and design of procurement processes
  • Procurement following PFI Contract Expiry
  • Bespoke procurement processes involving specific frameworks and processes
  • Complimentary training
  • Defending challenges
  • Successful challenges
  • Tailoring existing framework solutions to meet client needs
  • Weekly updates
Contracting
  • Input ensuring resolution of issues, including via mediation, adjudication and arbitration
  • Input is complimented with a wide range of specialisms including VAT, GDPR, Pensions, Employment, Property and Regulatory
  • Input is provided by genuine specialists for example in IT, AI, FM equipment and construction
  • Input on structure ensures efficiencies inlcuidng tax efficiencies
  • Input on structure of transactions to unlock opportunity for example through ensuring funding is sourced and incorporated if needed
  • Market leaders in PFI, PPP, Managed Equipment services
New ways of working
  • Corporate structures
  • New wave outsourcings
  • Trading companies
Dealing with change
  • Force Majeure
  • Insurance
  • PFI default
  • PFI buy outs
  • Refinancings
  • Step in
  • Variations
Dealing with termination and expiry of contracts
  • Compensation claims
  • Condition
  • Due diligence
  • Handback arrangements
  • TUPE transfers
Dealing with insolvency
  • Assisting in compiling proof of debt
  • Assisting with contingency plans
  • Assisting with recovery
  • Dealing with administration / administrators
  • Dealing with Liquidations / Liquidators

Contact a specialist

Tim Care

Partner | Public Sector

+44 (0) 330 137 3458

+44 (0) 752 590 3378

Email Tim Care

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Melanie Pears

Partner | Head of Public Sector

+44 (0) 330 137 3451

+44 (0)789 987 8424

Email Melanie Pears

Read bio

View all contacts

What people say

  • National education practice with a firm presence in the market and significant experience handling safeguarding and governance matters, among others. Also known for having extensive expertise in PFI/PPP projects and public procurement issues.

    Chambers & Partners
  • We’re grateful to Ward Hadaway who provided outstanding support throughout [the council's Building Schools for the Future programme] and gave a very professional level of advice which helped to speed up the process.

    Jim Collins, Assistant Director for Education and Corporate Parenting, Telford & Wrekin Council
  • It is very much a team effort, and Ward Hadaway add considerable skill and value to support the team.

    John Ord, Associate Project Director, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust
  • Very honest, straight, gives good advice and tells us what to do…Access to the team is brilliant. Every interaction has been great and response is excellent.

    Andie Mackay, Projects Manager, County Durham Darlington Fire and Rescue Authority
  • In all areas their advice has been prompt and reliable. Their knowledge of the relevant legislation in these areas has been excellent and very helpful to the Trust.

    Kevin Lewis, Procurement & Contracts Manager, North East Ambulance Service NHS Trust
  • I continue to find the members of Ward Hadaway to be both personable and proactive and they are always on call to discuss any queries we may have. The team provide accurate, timely and balanced advice, are willing to 'go the extra mile' and are very good at offering options for minimising legal expenditure.

    Chris Parsons, Director of Estates and Facilities, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust

What we're thinking