Public sector organisations are leaving themselves open to losing tens of thousands of pounds in fines and legal fees because they are routinely making mistakes in the way they procure goods and services, research shows.

Contracting authorities like councils, health bodies and education providers are required to publish details of contracts valued at over £172,514 on the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU). This involves public sector buying organisations giving details of contracts and opportunities in an online form to ensure the procurement process is fair and transparent.

But most public sector organisations are making mistakes in the process – leaving them open to fines and court challenges from suppliers amid great pressure on budgets.

Achilles runs a consultancy called EU Services, offering 500 regulated organisations – including councils, universities and health bodies specialist advice and training on how to comply with EU procurement regulations.