NHS Shared Business Services Hard Facilities Management 2 Framework Agreement provides a compliant route to access a full range of hard facilities management products and services.
The framework, known as Hard FM, runs from 12 April 2022 until 11 April 2024, with an extension until 11 April 2026 and is free to access for all UK public sector bodies.
The Hard FM Framework from NHS Shared Business Services is designed to respond to the need within the NHS for high-quality, innovative and cost-effective solutions, which helps NHS trusts manage their estates successfully.
The framework offers a single service, bundled service provision or a fully managed service provision and lists SMEs and national providers. There’s also a network of regional suppliers for more reactive, bespoke services.
The framework is made up of over 150 suppliers and claims to be able to achieve between five and ten per cent savings.
This mix of expertise spans the provision of low carbon energy infrastructure, incorporating smart microgrids with on-site generation of renewable energy.
It also covers air cleaning, decontamination and infection control systems, as well as Covid-secure queue management systems and access control, partitioning, isolation and social distancing systems, and integrated workplace management systems.
The framework offers a range of key services, including computerised estate & facilities management services; building works & maintenance services; power supply, fuel and steam plant; electrical installation and maintenance; ventilation, air conditioning, air cleaning and decontamination; infection control systems; automatic and fire doors and entry management systems; statutory inspections & rating support services; ancillary estate services; and hard FM managed services.
From infection control through to the maintenance and upkeep of medical facilities and equipment, keeping a safe environment in healthcare settings has a direct bearing on patient safety and care, the wellbeing of the NHS workforce and that of the wider public.
The framework agreement has been specifically designed for the NHS and healthcare sector, with inputs from NHS trusts (procurement, estate management and capital development personnel), the wider healthcare community and other public sector bodies. It can provide up to 10 per cent savings for Estate, Facilities and Capital Development teams that buy services through it.
Lots and suppliers
The framework lists 154 suppliers across 46 lots.
For the suppliers on the framework, a detailed procurement exercise has already been carried out, to ensure that they meet all legislative requirements. This means no formal tendering is required and valuable time and money can be saved in the procurement process.
With competitive pricing, the framework ensures capped pricing during the framework period to support budgeting and calculation of benefits realised by participating authorities.
Buying
The framework offers the possibility to direct award, giving freedom and flexibility to procurement teams to choose the suppliers they wish within the remit of the agreement.
There is also the option to take advantage of a fully managed service and award one supplier to perform all the services offered within the scope of the framework agreement.
Facilities management
Effective facilities management in healthcare buildings is important for a number of reasons. Not only does it ensure smooth operations, but it also sets a good impression on patients, staff and visitors – and can indeed contribute to effective recovery and wellbeing of patients. Clean, safe and well-run buildings enable healthcare workers to focus on their job – that of treating and caring for patients – without distraction.
Hospitals are emotional places, and having properly managed facilities can have a significant impact on employee morale and increase staff productivity.
Significantly, having properly managed facilities enables the NHS to save much-needed cash. Effectively managing premises, systems and equipment will reduce maintenance issues and help the focus shift to prevention rather than treatment.
