When the NHS identifies new healthcare workforce related requirements, the Alliance develops new framework agreements and follows a formal procurement process.
A framework agreement provides NHS organisations with a compliant route to support the engagement with framework awarded suppliers that have been rigorously assessed to deliver NHS services based on quality, social value and commercial criteria as per NHS England requirements. This offers the NHS an opportunity to either call-off services directly (without a further competition), or hold a further competition with an approved list of suppliers. This compliant route to market offers both suppliers and the NHS reduced procurement time and cost.
How to become an approved supplier on our frameworks
To become an approved supplier on an NHS Workforce Alliance framework, you will need to bid for a live tender. Our frameworks are for use by the NHS and wider public sector and therefore we are guided by Public Sector Contracts to promote competition and transparency. This process requires us to advertise planned framework agreements on e-tendering portals such as Contracts Finder and Atamis Health Family .
To become an approved Alliance supplier, we recommend you create an account on all e-tendering portals to view planned framework launches, then express interest by:
- Following the instructions given on the contract notice
- Complete all stages of the procurement process
What is a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS)?
Like a framework, a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) provides NHS organisations with a compliant route to engage with pre-qualified suppliers that have been rigorously and successfully assessed to deliver NHS services based on quality, social value and commercial criteria. However, unlike a framework agreement, suppliers can apply to join a DPS at any time. Visit our frameworks page to view our current DPS agreements.
Early supplier engagement
We undertake supplier engagement as early as possible in the procurement process, enabling the market to inform and help shape the development of our framework agreements. Early supplier engagement notices are announced on our website and LinkedIn page. During this process, we actively encourage and facilitate SME involvement in our procurements wherever possible.
Can I become a supplier to an existing framework agreement?
After a contract has been awarded on a Closed Framework, additional suppliers cannot go through the tendering process as this process is ceased. The length of a framework term varies but is usually between 12 months to four years. The next tender opportunity arises when the framework agreement expires or at multiple points during the frameworks duration if it is set as an Open Framework. Visit our frameworks page to view our current framework term dates.
- Open Framework: suppliers can join a framework at predetermined points during its term
- Closed Framework: no new suppliers are allowed to join the framework during its term
Subcontracting
Suppliers awarded to RM6281 Clinical Staffing, and RM6277 Non Clinical Staffing closed framework agreements are permitted to add subcontractors to provide services via the subcontractor agreement. In this instance, the awarded framework supplier should contact their Alliance supplier relationship manager to request a sub-contracting application form.
“Our collaboration with the NHS Workforce Alliance has been characterized by open and transparent communication, which has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the current marketplace.
Through our partnership, we’ve been able to identify and pursue opportunities that align with both our goals and the needs of the NHS. This supplier relationship platform that we have been provided by Workforce Alliance has allowed us to work effectively together, ensuring that we contribute positively and meet the high standards expected. We value the strong relationship we’ve built and look forward to continuing our work together.”
Scott Lane, Day Webster, daywebster.com
“As a supplier for 25 years, I find the NHS Workforce Alliance a pleasure to work with. Previously, relationships between framework providers and suppliers were often fractious. However, more visionary framework providers now engage trusted suppliers proactively, seeking their input on decisions. This collaborative relationship benefits both parties.
The introduction of formal SRM meetings has enhanced this further helping both Alliance and suppliers to identify commercial opportunities that achieve greater efficiencies for the NHS that we collectively serve.”
Neil Webb, The Placement Group, tpgplc.com