CCS joins with Virgin Media to boost public sector digitisation

Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Virgin Media O2 Business in an attempt to boost digitalisation efforts across government bodies and public organisations.

The new three-year agreement is planned to generate competitive discounts and accelerate digital collaboration, promising enhanced value for taxpayers and streamlined procurement processes.

It is hoped public sector entities will be able to deliver enhanced connectivity to overcome legacy tech barriers, simplify processes, automate systems, and drive greater digital fluency nationwide.

In 2022 to 2023, CCS said they helped the public sector to achieve commercial benefits equal to £3.8 billion - supporting world-class public services that offer best value for taxpayers. 

Through this new agreement, public sector entities will gain access to Virgin Media O2 Business' telecoms products and services.

They said they will provide solutions for fixed connectivity, mobile shared data bundles, IP telephony, professional services, equipment and devices.

In addition to simplified procurement processes, the new agreement will establish a new discounting model to provide public sector organisations with "competitive rates". 

Dr. Philip Orumwense, commercial director and chief procurement officer for technology at Crown Commercial Services said: “Mobile voice and data is an integral part of enabling service delivery for the public sector. The ability to talk and communicate to colleagues and citizens and access and share data quickly and securely has never been more important.

"This new MoU uses the buying power that CCS has to deliver cost effective and soundly procured connectivity solutions from Virgin Media O2 Business. There will also be additional benefits for customers through increased social value and L&D opportunities.”

Martin McFadyen, director of Public Sector at Virgin Media O2 Business said: “Our new agreement with Crown Commercial Service will help accelerate digital transformation and offer innovative discounting for UK government bodies and public organisations. 

"Whether overcoming barriers or exploring the advantages of 5G technology, there is a key role for Virgin Media O2 Business in supporting the public sector to get the most from telecoms technology and connecting communities across the nation. 

"This partnership will also boost efforts to tackle digital literacy, helping people tap into the benefits of connectivity in their daily lives.”