Derbyshire Dales DC is urging local businesses to tender for its services. The council recently adopted an updated corporate procurement strategy which supports its aim to provide excellent services and value for money. Firms wrongly believe they cannot compete with big corporates for contracts, due to price or bidding costs. Small businesses, in particular, continue to be encouraged to tender for council services, and also to check whether they qualify for rate relief. Other recession-busting measures introduced include a free debt advice service and a commitment to pay invoices as quickly as it can – 11 days on average.