Supplier FAQ's
WORKFORCE AND STAFFING FAQ.
Q. Interested in subcontracting RM6162 International Recruitment framework
A. You can find a list of all current framework suppliers here on our website within the ‘Suppliers’ tab.
Q. Interested in subcontracting on the RM6281 Clinical framework
A. You can find a list of all current framework suppliers here on our website within the ‘Suppliers’ tab.
Q. Interested in subcontracting on the RM6277 Non-Clinical framework
A. You can find a list of all current framework suppliers here on our website within the ‘Suppliers’ section.
Q. Interested in subcontracting on the RM6229 Permanent Recruitment 2 framework
A. You can find a list of all current framework suppliers here on our website within the ‘Suppliers’ section.
PROCUREMENT FAQ'S
What is a Framework Agreement?
A Framework Agreement is a general term for an agreement with a provider(s) which sets out terms and conditions under which specific purchases (call-offs) can be made either a Direct Award or via a Further-competition tender exercise throughout the term of the agreement. Framework Agreements are established for bodies to buy goods, services, or works, via a pre-approved list of suppliers or contractors.
We are not on a Framework Agreement, can we still take part?
As provisioned in the Public Contracts Regulation 2015 (PCR), new entrants are not allowed to be appointed as a Supplier once the Tender process for setting up of a Framework Agreement has been concluded. A PCR compliant tender process is open to all suppliers to take part which is advertised on UK Government websites. However, new suppliers can be accessed through Sun-contracting arrangement, in compliance with the relevant Framework Agreement.
A comprehensive guide on How to Become a Supplier is available on our website.
What is a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS)?
A DPS functions in a similar way to traditional Framework Agreements in that Contracting Authorities can call-off under a DPS through a Further Competition Tender process. A Direct Award is not available under a DPS. However, a DPS allows a new Supplier to join the DPS during the life of the DPS. The DPS hosting authority will open the DPS for new Suppliers inclusion from time to time as declared on the Notice for the relevant DPS.
What is a call-off contract?
A call-off contract is a Contract between a Supplier and a Contracting Authority with firm commitment for a defined service and/or goods purchase with agreed price (commercial) to be paid for the defined service and/or goods. A call-off contract is issued under a Framework Agreement through a Direct Award or Further Competition Tender process.
What is the benefit of using a Framework Agreement and DPS?
It saves a Contracting Authority the time, resources and complexity of running a full Tender process. A Framework Agreement / DPS usually will appoint a pool of tested and qualified Suppliers through a set of industry standard questionnaire and the Contracting Authorities will not require running the same tests when using a Framework Agreement/DPS.
Can the term of the call-off contract run past the Framework Agreement’s expiration date?
Yes, as long as the contracting authority has a business case/reason that is justified for deciding a certain call-off contract period, the contract can be awarded for that period and it can span beyond the Framework Agreement’s expiry date, provided that the call-off contract under a Framework Agreement was awarded prior to the Framework Agreement’s expiry date.
Do I need to invite all Contractors to a further/mini-competition?
A Contracting Authority will need to invite all Contractors for the lot under which they are undertaking their mini competition.
How long does a mini competition need to run for?
This will depend on the size, complexity, and nature of the project. Participating authorities should take into account the size and value of the contract, complexity of works required, and any additional requirements from Contractors. Generally, a mini-comp/further comp tender process should be open for four weeks. This can be further reduced/increased depending on the various scenario.
Do I have to apply a stand still period to a mini competition?
NHS Commercial Solutions encourages the application of standstill periods for all further/mini-competitions under our Framework Agreement as a best practice. This ensures transparency to all Suppliers involved in the process and minimises the risk of challenge once a contract is awarded. A de-brief during the standstill period also allows the unsuccessful Suppliers to identify the areas where they can improve in their future bids.
SUPPLIER FAQ'S
Q.Our Organisation would be interested in supply goods/services on one of your frameworks?
A. In line with The Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR15), new suppliers cannot join the framework once they have commenced/gone-live. However, you may approach an awarded supplier to become a sub-contractor for them.
All new and upcoming public tenders can be found on websites like Contracts Finder They will contain full instructions, on where to submit your bid as well as any deadlines. For further information, please visit https://www.commercialsolutions-sec.nhs.uk/pages/becoming-a-supplier.