Kent County Council trading as Procurement Services has carried out preliminary market engagement for a new local and national Audit and Assurance Services framework. The proposed framework has an estimated value of £600 million including VAT and is intended to cover audit and assurance requirements across all areas of the public sector.
The engagement deadline has now passed, but this remains a significant early-stage opportunity for audit, assurance and professional services firms. Suppliers should use the period before the formal tender to review their fit, prepare evidence and consider how they would position their services for a broad public sector framework.
What the Framework Is Intended to Cover
The scope and lot structure are still to be determined, which is the purpose of the market engagement. The notice identifies a broad intention to design a framework for all Audit and Assurance Services required within the public sector. CPV classifications include computer audit services, auditing services, financial auditing, internal audit and fraud audit.
For suppliers, this means the engagement stage is not administrative. It is a chance to provide feedback on realistic specifications, commercial models, procurement structure, market constraints and delivery risks before the formal tender is written.
Why This Opportunity Is Worth Preparing For
- Large estimated value: £600 million including VAT across a four-year term.
- Broad public sector scope: The framework is intended to support audit and assurance requirements across the public sector.
- Local and national reach: The buyer is designing a framework capable of supporting different customer needs and delivery models.
- Scope still being shaped: Supplier input can help influence how the framework is structured and whether it is accessible to a wide range of firms.
Preparing for the Formal Tender
With the engagement stage now closed, here are some key steps for firms considering a bid.
- Build your evidence bank now. Public sector audit frameworks require clear evidence of relevant work, professional qualifications, quality management, independence, conflicts management and delivery capacity.
- Think about specialisms. Computer audit, financial audit, internal audit and fraud audit may need different case studies and technical responses.
- Consider your delivery model. A national and local framework may require geographic coverage, sector expertise, scalable teams or specialist subcontractor arrangements.
- Review previous public sector audit responses. Identify gaps in your evidence and decide whether the framework is likely to merit a full bid once the tender is released.
Quick Facts
- Authority: Kent County Council trading as Procurement Services
- Estimated value: £600,000,000 including VAT
- Expected term: 1 May 2027 to 30 April 2031
- Scope: Audit and Assurance Services for the public sector
Key Dates
- Engagement deadline: 1 July 2026 (now closed)
- Current stage: preliminary market engagement completed
- Notice: Find a Tender - 058958-2026
The Audit and Assurance Services framework is a substantial route to market for firms with the right credentials and capacity. Contact Thornton & Lowe for a no-obligation discussion about your bid strategy. Our professional services tenders support page may also help you prepare.
