Security framework launched to protect NHS and public sector organisations
Busy hospital

The NHS SBS Security Services, CCTV and VSS Framework Agreement is designed to meet the evolving security demands of healthcare and public sector environments. Offering a compliant route to market, flexible procurement options, and support for sustainability and social value, the framework provides high-quality, future-ready solutions to keep people, property, and information safe

NHS SBS’s Security Services, CCTV and VSS Framework Agreement has been created to meet all the operational security requirements and challenges of operating in both a healthcare and wider public sector environment.

The framework offers the opportunity to procure responsive and flexible security solutions that can operate in a challenging environment. It also includes a comprehensive safe and effective system of monitoring and supporting lone working staff, including staff call systems.

The framework agreement provides a compliant and sustainable solution for security services, CCTV and VSS for the NHS and wider public sector. It is available for use for all NHS and UK public sector organisations and will run from 14 November 2024 – 13 November 2028.

NHS hospitals, surgeries, and other public sector organisations operate within a complex and ever-changing security environment. With facilities open to a wide variety of individuals, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of staff, patients, and visitors is essential. Security measures, including CCTV, video surveillance systems (VSS), and professional security services, can also help safeguard buildings and critical equipment.

Security in hospitals is essential to protect patients, staff, visitors, and assets in a complex, high-pressure environment. Hospitals serve vulnerable individuals, making it vital to prevent threats such as violence, theft, and unauthorised access. Effective security ensures that sensitive areas like operating rooms and medication storage are protected, while also safeguarding confidential patient information. Security teams help manage emergencies, control access, and de-escalate conflicts, contributing to a safe and orderly atmosphere. Additionally, robust security supports compliance with legal and regulatory standards, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on delivering care without disruption or risk to safety.     

The agreement is structured into five lots: Guarding services; Security design and assessment; Supply, installation, and maintenance of CCTV and VSS; Supply and monitoring of lone working/staff call; and Supply, installation, and maintenance of security alarms, fire alarms, and access control systems.

Benefits

The framework offers several benefits. Firstly it provides a PCR15-compliant route to market and the flexibility to direct award to a single supplier or run a further competition. Buyers can source their requirements as part of a single solution or a bundled service offer.     

The framework offers competitive pricing, with pricing options and capped rates secured with structured and controlled price review provisions from year two to ensure our customers have cost certainty.     

It provides the assurance that all providers meet British standards and HTM’s and all relevant industry accreditation.     

With the goal of a net zero health service in mind, the framework supports sustainability outcomes with a focus on reducing road miles, the use of electric vehicles or carbon efficient vehicles, and repurposing and recycling where appropriate. It also supports social value outcomes through assessment of supplier’s modern slavery policies and processes and apprenticeships opportunities.

NHS SBS offers different layers of support, including SME advice and robust templates for you to easily run your own process, or additional support to design and run a further competition on your behalf.

In summary, the NHS SBS Security Services, CCTV, and VSS Framework Agreement offers a robust, compliant, and future-ready solution to meet the complex and evolving security needs of the NHS and wider public sector. By enabling access to flexible, high-quality services across key security areas, the framework ensures the protection of people, property, and sensitive information. With a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and value for money, it empowers organisations to meet operational demands while aligning with strategic goals. Supported by expert guidance and proven suppliers, this framework is a vital tool in delivering safe, secure, and resilient public services.

The framework can be found here