Primary authority partnership

A Primary Authority partnership is a government-backed scheme. It provides businesses with expert and tailored advice on regulatory compliance.

Through this program, businesses can receive customised advice on Environmental Health and Trading Standards. This is either directly or through a Trade Association. This centralised approach provides a single point of contact for expert advice.

When businesses receive formal Primary Authority Advice, other regulators and local authorities are obligated to follow this guidance. This gives businesses the assurance to invest in compliant products, practices, and procedures. This makes sure their resources are well utilised.

Why Wakefield?

The Environmental Health team at Wakefield Council in conjunction with West Yorkshire Joint Services deliver award winning Primary Authority nationally. Our experience and expertise dates back to its inception in 2008.

Situated between the M62, M1 and mainline train services, Wakefield is at the centre of the North's logistical network. From this unique position we have developed our specialisms around a hub of logistics businesses

This is with the aim to become one of the leading authorities and Award-Winning experts in the food sector, transportation and more. Your business does not need to be based in Wakefield to have a partnership with us.

What do I get from a Primary Authority partnership?

Our business partners have told us that the main benefits they get from their Primary Authority partnership with us include:

• assured advice, consistency in interpretation of legislation and protection against enforcement action from other regulators
• relationship with partner regulators
  • this includes Trading Standards, Food Standards Agency, and Health and Safety Executive
• the targeting of resource to areas of greatest business risk
• first look at emerging regulatory changes
• insight into the regulatory world e.g., National Health and Safety/Food Safety inspection priorities
• personal development of business managers to undertake self-audits and develop priority-based action plans for compliance matters

"Having formalised our Partnership in October 2012 we have been extremely impressed by the quality of the service we are receiving, and the professional strengths of the officers involved. Wakefield Council has proved to be supportive and decisive in their advice to us and in their dealings with other authorities. Their officers are highly professional, knowledgeable, and proactive in driving the Partnership forward."

Philip Taylor, Senior Health and Safety Manager, Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC

"Our long-standing relationship with Wakefield serves as testament to them being the partner of choice for Health and Safety within our industry. Not only do our members enjoy all the benefits of a co-ordinated partnership scheme they also have the assurance of Wakefield's vast sectorial experience."

Simon Brentnall, Head of Health and Safety, British Frozen Food Federation

We provide partnerships that encompass various Environmental Health functions. This includes Food Safety, Health and Safety, Animal Health, and Environmental Protection.

Our team takes the lead in offering Primary Authority Advice and developing PA Inspection plans.

Whether you're a big multi-site business or a small independent entrepreneur looking to expand, we are eager to find the best solution for you.

For a quote and full run-down of this service contact Ruth Rhodes on rrhodes@wakefield.gov.uk.