NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has launched three new soft facilities management (FM) procurement solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency, save costs and ensure high quality environments for NHS patients, staff and visitors.
Together, the new framework agreements for linen and laundry, grounds maintenance and security services, with a combined value of £375m, provide NHS Trusts and other public organisations with a compliant and cost-effective way to source solutions that support the day-to-day running, upkeep and caretaking of facilities across their estates.
Nick Verburg, Head of Category Management at NHS SBS comments: “The framework agreements provide essential services that support clean, safe and functional environments, aligning with government and NHS national priorities for a resilient and efficient healthcare system.
“Developed with a regional structure to ensure all sizes of suppliers are included, we’re delighted to be able to offer a blend and provide a choice of solutions for the NHS, and to work with hospitals, Trusts and Integrated Care Systems to manage their soft FM needs.”
Linen and Laundry Services
Valued at £150m, the framework agreement provides a comprehensive solution for managed laundry and linen services, including hiring, buying and decontaminating – critical to the prevention and control of infections in healthcare settings – through to repairing and recycling of old linen, enabling its reuse for cost efficiencies.
Promoting sustainable practices, it aligns with the NHS’s net zero goals. Its regional structure gives buyers the ability to source from local NHS suppliers and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) who constitute 56% of suppliers on the framework agreement.
Grounds Maintenance and Associated Services
NHS facilities need to maintain clean, well-kept outdoor and estate-wide spaces which are important to patient wellbeing, infection control and overall hospital presentation.
From landscaping to pest control, the £100m framework agreement offers services that contribute to creating a safe and welcoming environment for patients, staff and visitors.
It also supports NHS Trusts to meet biodiversity targets as part of their Green Plans with an offer that ensures all green waste is recycled or composted, and options for the use of electric power tools and grass cutting equipment.
Security services, CCTV and Video Surveillance Systems
Addressing the critical need for safety, the £125m framework agreement provides access to a range of security services, including manned guarding, keyholding and emergency response.
By helping NHS organisations protect staff, patients and assets, the framework agreement ensures a secure environment essential for delivering uninterrupted care.
Streamlined procurement for better results
All three framework agreements simplify procurement by providing access to pre-approved suppliers, removing the need for lengthy and complex tender processes. This enables healthcare procurement teams to quickly source and acquire services they need while ensuring compliance with procurement regulations.
With transparent pricing and inclusive access to suppliers, including SMEs, the framework agreements make procurement more accessible and equitable.
A focus on sustainability and innovation
Aligned with the NHS’s net zero ambitions, the framework agreements offer environmentally conscious solutions, from sustainable laundry practices to energy-efficient equipment. These innovations reflect the NHS’s commitment to sustainability while maintaining cost-effectiveness and high standards of service.
Nick Verburg concludes: “Part of our evaluation process measured the ability of bidders to tackle modern slavery in their supply chains and provide apprenticeships through the delivery of their offers through these framework agreements. Therefore, organisations who call off services using them will benefit from collaborating with suppliers who are committed to delivering social value which in turn will benefit their own Green Plans.
“By streamlining procurement and ensuring access to high quality sustainable services, we’re helping healthcare organisations save time and money while enhancing patient care. This reflects our commitment to delivering practical, innovative solutions that support the NHS in achieving its goals.”
