Health Workforce Solutions RM6380 is a new open framework agreement, let under the Procurement Act 2023, that gives access to strategic bespoke workforce solutions designed to meet evolving NHS workforce priorities aligned with the NHS 10 Year Health Plan. It offers flexible solutions for NHS organisations to manage agency staffing cost pressures plus sustainable alternatives to traditional agency staffing models including but not limited to outsourced staff banks, strategic managed service solutions, temporary and permanent recruitment solutions (domestic and international), workforce management plans and vendor management systems.
The framework is the replacement for Workforce Improvement Services RM6163 and Managed Staff Banks RM6278 but offers much more. Whilst it includes all the elements that have led to the legacy frameworks successes including over £68m in savings delivered for the NHS across their full period, the new expanded framework opens additional opportunities that can contribute to the achievement of cost improvement plans for NHS trusts. Health Workforce Solutions has the necessary updates to facilitate growth, innovation and technology while making the framework easier to use for all stakeholders.
As part of the framework development, the Alliance team engaged extensively with customers and suppliers to shape the new agreement, incorporating a range of benefits above and beyond those available through the previous frameworks, including:
- Outcome focused: This adaptable framework focuses on the outcomes you want to achieve, rather than a specific process or delivery model, helping to supporting innovation.
- Flexible options: Not limited to fixed capabilities and models, the framework offers the flexibility to pick and choose service lines to design your own bespoke solution and deliver through a single, streamlined procurement route.
- Broader package offering: As well as outsourced staff banks, agency supply chain management, Direct Engagement and permanent recruitment (international and domestic), the framework offers advanced options including:
- Advisory and discovery services
- Recruit, train, deploy options
- Statement of works
- Diverse and experienced suppliers: A broader, more diverse supplier base offering an expanded range of services
- Better value: PA23 offers a more flexible and transparent procurement route which opens up opportunities for better value through competitive routes
Resources available to NHS organisations
Further resources are available to help you explore the benefits of this new agreement:
- Framework documentation: Visit the Health Workforce Solutions framework page for a suite of helpful documentation including the framework specification, user guide, FAQs and supplier capability matrix. Please note, you will need to login to view these resources, or register if you don’t already have an account.
- Launch webinar recording: A recording of the launch webinar highlighting the background, scope and details of the framework is available in the Resources area of our website. Please note, you will need to login to view these resources, or register if you don’t already have an account.
- Dedicated regional support: Each NHS region in England has its own dedicated, experienced Alliance regional team who can assist with workforce advice, getting started, procurement or contract support. To arrange a call, please use the contact form on our website and we’ll be in touch.
