Two new frameworks have been launched for the NHS and the wider public sector: cyber security services and soft facilities management services.
The Cyber Security Services Framework can be used to procure external support and services to help manage cyber security risks, increase resilience and recover in the event of an incident. It has been developed in partnership by NHS Digital, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and NHS Shared Business Services and has been designed to complement services already available from NHS Digital’s Data Security Centre.
The framework will enable organisations to bring in additional resource, providing access to 25 selected suppliers operating in a highly specialised marketplace, supported and approved by NHS Digital.
Dan Jeffery, NHS Digital’s Head of Innovation, Delivery and Business Operations, says the framework will: “… provide further options, alongside NHS Digital’s central offering, for organisations to procure support which is bespoke and relevant to them, so that they can continue to keep patient data safe and secure and deliver world class patient care.”
The Soft FM, Asset Compliance and Security Services Framework is a £500m procurement framework launched by NHS Shared Business Services to provide simple, cost-effective access to a wide-range of specialist services. With average indicative savings of 5% compared to buying direct from a supplier at list price, the potential cost saving for the public sector is expected to be up to £25 million.
The framework has 32 different lots that cover everything from asbestos removal, active and passive fire safety, CCTV and lift maintenance; to cleaning and laundry services, pest control, and grounds and gardens maintenance.
The agreement includes an option to procure single services, bundled services or a complete managed solution. It will run until summer 2022 with the possibility of an extension to 2024.
Phil Davies, Director of Procurement at NHS SBS, says: “This new framework is regionalised across all 32 lots and includes a range of SMEs, service specialists and large national providers, saving valuable time and money for public sector organisations wherever they are across the UK.
“The experience and capability of the approved suppliers has been robustly tested as part of our comprehensive procurement process. It means framework users can have full confidence in the essential services provided, without needing to carry out their own complex and costly procurement exercise.”
Other facilities available via the framework include porterage and courier services, water treatment, demolition, window cleaning and catering.
