Cyber Essentials and Government Frameworks

Cyber Essentials: A Growing Requirement for Public Sector and Private Tenders

As cyber security threats continue to rise, public and private sector organisations are placing greater emphasis on supplier security when awarding contracts. An increasing number of tenders and frameworks now require suppliers to have Cyber Essentials certification, demonstrating their commitment to protecting sensitive information and minimising cyber risks.

What is Cyber Essentials?

Cyber Essentials is a government-backed, industry-supported certification scheme that helps businesses protect themselves against common cyber threats. It sets out a basic standard of cyber security controls and provides a clear framework for organisations to follow.

There are two levels of certification:

• Cyber Essentials – A self-assessment certification demonstrating that an organisation has implemented fundamental cyber security measures.
• Cyber Essentials Plus – A more in-depth certification that includes an external vulnerability assessment and testing by cyber security professionals.

Why is Cyber Essentials Important for Tenders?

Public sector organisations handle large amounts of sensitive data, making cyber security a top priority. To mitigate risks, many tenders and frameworks now require Cyber Essentials certification as a mandatory standard. This requirement ensures that all suppliers meet essential security controls, reducing the likelihood of data breaches and cyber attacks.

According to Framework Schedule 9, suppliers must provide a valid Cyber Essentials certificate before contract commencement. Failure to do so may result in a prohibition from delivering services until compliance is demonstrated. Additionally, subcontractors handling Cyber Essentials Scheme Data must also meet certification requirements.

In the private sector, Cyber Essentials has historically been encouraged as best practice but is now becoming a necessity for securing contracts. A review of recent tenders indicates that almost all ask about Cyber Essentials accreditation, underlining its growing importance in procurement processes.

Without Cyber Essentials certification, businesses may find themselves unable to bid for contracts involving the handling of public sector data or private sector contracts where security is a priority.

Benefits of Cyber Essentials Certification for Suppliers

1. Comply with Tender Requirements – Many tenders now require suppliers to be Cyber Essentials certified, particularly when handling data.
2. Ensure Contract Compliance – Suppliers without valid certification risk delays or exclusion from public sector contracts.
3. Improve Business Reputation – Certification signals to potential clients that your organisation takes cyber security seriously.
4. Reduce Cyber Risks – Implementing Cyber Essentials controls can protect against around 80% of common cyber threats.
5. Support GDPR Compliance – Cyber Essentials aligns with key elements of GDPR, helping businesses meet data protection obligations.
6. Enhance Competitiveness – Having certification can provide a competitive edge when bidding for work.

Beyond a ‘Tick-Box’ Exercise

Cyber Essentials is more than just a formality; it requires ongoing commitment to maintaining cyber security. Regular updates, system patches, and staff training are essential to remain compliant and protected against evolving threats.

Businesses must also be aware that failing to maintain cyber security can lead to:

• Breaches of GDPR compliance, resulting in fines.
• Loss of cyber insurance coverage if a breach occurs due to neglected security.
• Higher risks of cyber attacks, potentially damaging business operations and reputation.
• Contract termination if certification is not renewed annually.

How to Get Cyber Essentials Certification

Obtaining Cyber Essentials certification is a straightforward process:

1. Cyber Essentials (Basic): Complete a self-assessment questionnaire to demonstrate compliance with key security measures.
2. Cyber Essentials Plus: Undergo an independent assessment, including vulnerability testing by security professionals.

Certification is valid for 12 months, and businesses must renew it annually to ensure continued compliance with evolving cyber security threats. Failure to renew can result in contract termination under public sector frameworks.

Cyber Essentials & Public Procurement

With the increasing focus on cyber security in public procurement, businesses bidding for government contracts must take action. Ensuring compliance with Cyber Essentials can improve tender success rates and provide reassurance to contracting authorities.

At Thornton & Lowe, we support businesses navigating the complexities of public sector bidding. Understanding and meeting cyber security requirements is becoming as essential as demonstrating financial stability and service quality. If your organisation is looking to secure public sector contracts, obtaining Cyber Essentials certification should be a priority.

For more insights into public procurement trends and requirements, get in touch with our team today.