NHS Workforce Alliance International Healthcare Professional Recruitment & Associated Services
Introduction
The NHS Workforce Alliance International Healthcare Professional Recruitment & Associated Services Framework, managed by NHS North of England, is a strategic initiative to support NHS Trusts and public sector organisations in the recruitment of healthcare professionals from overseas. This framework is a fixed-term agreement, set to conclude on 2nd May 2025, and is structured to enhance the recruitment process by providing comprehensive services and support at all stages. It is essential for addressing the workforce challenges faced by the NHS, particularly in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and amid ongoing shortages of clinical staff in England.
Context & Use Case
The framework serves as a crucial component of the NHS's broader 10-year plan, which underscores the critical need for ethical and sustainable international recruitment. It aims to provide a structured and reliable route for NHS Trusts and other public sector entities to engage with qualified suppliers capable of facilitating the recruitment of international healthcare professionals. The need for this framework arises from the ongoing demand for skilled clinical staff, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic and the inherent challenges in domestic recruitment. By bridging this gap, the framework supports the NHS in maintaining high standards of patient care and operational efficiency.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into five distinct lots, each covering specific areas of international recruitment and associated services: 1. International Nursing and Midwifery: Recruitment services for nurses and midwives from overseas. 2. International Doctors and Dentists: Services focused on recruiting doctors and dentists from international locations. 3. International AHPs including social workers: Recruitment of allied health professionals and social workers from abroad. 4. International OSCE Training Support Services: Provision of training support for the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), a key requirement for international healthcare professionals. 5. International Candidate Pastoral Support: Services ensuring the well-being and integration of international candidates into the UK healthcare environment.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to suppliers with expertise in international recruitment within the healthcare sector. Suitable applicants may include recruitment agencies, training providers, and organisations offering pastoral support services. Given that this is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), applications are restricted to the initial procurement phase, and interested suppliers should ensure they meet all specified criteria prior to submission.
Buyer Benefits
Public sector buyers utilise this framework to streamline the recruitment process, ensuring compliance with NHS standards and policies while benefiting from a competitive and transparent procurement route. The framework offers an expedited path to market, allowing NHS Trusts to address staffing shortages more efficiently. By leveraging pre-vetted suppliers, buyers can reduce the risks associated with international recruitment and ensure that ethical guidelines are upheld throughout the process.
Lots
Lot 1: International Nursing and Midwifery This lot covers the recruitment and placement of international nurses and midwives. Lot 2: International Doctors and Dentists This lot focuses on the recruitment and placement of international doctors and dentists. Lot 3: International AHPs including social workers This lot involves the recruitment and placement of international allied health professionals, including social workers. Lot 4: International OSCE Training Support Services This lot provides training support services for the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) for international candidates. Lot 5: International Candidate Pastoral Support This lot offers pastoral support services for international candidates to assist with their integration and well-being.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating in this framework should thoroughly review the requirements and ensure their capabilities align with the framework's objectives. Direct contact with the contracting authority, NHS North of England, is advised for detailed information on submission deadlines, evaluation criteria, and contractual obligations.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable provides essential support to suppliers navigating public sector procurement frameworks. We offer insights into framework opportunities and assist with the preparation and submission of applications. Our services are designed to enhance suppliers' visibility of upcoming procurement opportunities, helping them to strategically position themselves within the public sector market.