Fife Council has launched a business charter designed to improve the economic performance of the region and reduce inequalities.
The charter is a framework for the working relationship between Fife Council and local businesses sets out how the local authority will support the region’s firms.
This includes the council procuring as many of its goods and services from Fife suppliers as possible, while ensuring it fulfils its statutory duty to secure best value.
This could mean splitting up procurement requirements into smaller lots, carrying out early market engagement and publishing a forward plan of procurement opportunities.
The council has also committed to paying undisputed invoices within 30 days.
Meanwhile companies who adopt the charter commit to providing fair, healthy and safe workplaces.
Employers are encouraged to pay the living wage and promote the creation of employment and training opportunities for local residents, including those with disabilities.
Businesses are also urged to work with schools to support learning and career opportunities for local children.
Cllr David Ross, Co-leader of Fife Council said: “This signals our commitment to a new way of working to ensure that we work with Fife businesses to improve the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the Kingdom in order to create a fairer Fife.
“Businesses are increasingly judged on their values and corporate responsibility policies and adopting the charter is a fantastic way of demonstrating your company’s commitments to those values.”
Fife Council adds that it will help provide tailored advice and training relevant to the sector and location through Business Gateway Fife. It will also help businesses find new markets and customers through its market development programme.
Co-leader Cllr David Alexander added: “The charter is also designed to make contact with the council easier and more effective.
“It sets out what the council will do to help all the region’s businesses whatever their size and sector and signposts them to where they can receive advice and support to both start-up and grow.
The charter was developed in conjunction with the Fife Economy Partnership, Fife Chamber of Commerce and Federation of Small Businesses.
rmclaren@thecourier.co.uk