Credit Checking Services
Framework Description
SUPC's Credit Checking Services framework gives member universities a route to business and consumer credit reference data and related risk assessment services. It is a single-lot agreement with one awarded supplier. It started on 29 September 2025 and runs until 28 September 2029 with no extension, so it has nearly three years left to run.
Context & Use Case
Universities use credit checks in procurement due diligence on prospective suppliers and partners, and when letting commercial accommodation or space to tenants. Because it is a low-value, repeat service, a framework with direct call-off saves them running their own tender. With a single supplier appointed, members order straight from the awarded provider.
Scope of Services
Business and consumer credit checking Credit reference reporting Risk assessment data services
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Suits credit reference agencies and business information providers regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. With a single supplier appointed and applications closed, other providers cannot join. The next chance is the re-tender expected around 28 September 2029.
Buyer Benefits
Procurement and finance teams get quick access to credit data for supplier checks, which supports the financial standing tests in their own tenders, under terms already agreed. A single provider means one data format and one contract to manage across the institution, and tenant checks can be run through the same account.
Next Steps
The appointed provider should encourage uptake across member institutions and show how its data supports supplier due diligence. Other agencies face a long wait until 28 September 2029, so the realistic options are direct tenders from universities and other public bodies in the meantime, and building evidence of data coverage and FCA compliance for SUPC's re-tender.
How Athena Can Help
With applications for this framework closed until 2029, credit information providers need other public sector routes. Athena's framework and DPS identification finds data and professional services frameworks that are open now or due to open, and builds a 6–12 month plan around them.
For direct tenders, our consultancy for public sector bids covers the bid/no-bid decision and compliance under the Procurement Act 2023, and Athena's proposal writing team turns your data coverage and accuracy into answers that score.
