Statutory Audit and Multi Specialty Services and Advisory Consultancy Services
Introduction
The Statutory Audit and Multi-Specialty Services and Advisory Consultancy Services framework, managed by NHS North of England, serves as a pivotal procurement route for accessing high-quality audit and advisory services within the public sector, particularly for NHS trusts. This framework is scheduled to remain in operation until 28 January 2026. It is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), meaning applications are not open throughout its duration, and suppliers must adhere to the initial tendering process to be considered. The framework aims to ensure that financial practices across participating organisations comply with current and emerging legal and auditing standards, reflecting best practices.
Context & Use Case
This framework is structured to support NHS trusts and various public sector organisations in their quest to achieve robust financial governance and transparency. By utilising this framework, these entities can expedite access to specialised audit services, ensuring that their financial systems and processes are both legally compliant and optimally efficient. The inclusion of a comprehensive range of audit and advisory services allows for a holistic approach to financial management, combining diverse expertise under one framework. This is particularly crucial in the public sector, where financial scrutiny and accountability are of paramount importance.
Scope of Services
The framework is organised into several lots, each focusing on a specific area of audit and consultancy services: 1. Statutory audit/external audit 2. Counter fraud services 3. Internal audit 4. Assurance reviews 5. Digital and IM&T audit 6. Security management 7. Multi audit service provision, which offers a combined service provision for lots 2 to 6 These services collectively cover a broad spectrum of financial oversight tasks, from the regular statutory audits to specialised reviews that ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial reports. The addition of Assurance Reviews as Lot 4 is a noteworthy expansion, focusing on verifying the precision of financial documentation and safeguarding against errors and fraudulent activities.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to suppliers with the capability to deliver high-quality audit and advisory services. Suitable candidates typically include established audit firms, consultancy practices specialising in financial services, and organisations offering digital and security management solutions. Given its fixed-term nature, suppliers need to have participated in the initial tender to be considered, as the framework does not allow for ongoing applications or new entrants once established.
Buyer Benefits
Public sector buyers benefit significantly from using this framework. It provides a streamlined avenue to procure essential audit services, ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements while promoting best practices in financial management. The framework facilitates a swift route to market, enabling contracting authorities to engage qualified suppliers efficiently. Additionally, it fosters competitive pricing and service quality by assembling a diverse pool of pre-vetted providers.
Lots
Lot 1: Statutory audit/external audit This lot covers the provision of statutory and external audit services. Lot 2: Counter fraud services This lot covers services aimed at preventing, detecting, and responding to fraud. Lot 3: Internal audit This lot covers the provision of internal audit services to assess and improve risk management, control, and governance processes. Lot 4: Assurance reviews This lot covers the provision of assurance review services to evaluate the effectiveness of operations and compliance. Lot 5: Digital and IM&T audit This lot covers audit services related to digital systems and Information Management and Technology. Lot 6: Security management This lot covers services related to managing and improving security measures. Lot 7: Multi audit service provision This lot offers combined service provision for counter fraud services, internal audit, assurance reviews, digital and IM&T audit, and security management.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in this framework should carefully review the specific requirements and criteria outlined by NHS North of England. Engaging directly with the framework's contracting authority is advisable for obtaining detailed information and guidance on participation.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable assists suppliers by providing valuable insights and resources to navigate public sector frameworks like this one. We support organisations in discovering relevant opportunities, preparing competitive bids, and maintaining visibility of their procurement pipeline. Our aim is to simplify the complexities of public procurement, ensuring suppliers are well-equipped to participate effectively.