Legal Services for Health
Introduction
The Legal Services for Health Framework is a strategic procurement solution designed and managed by NHS Shared Business Services. This framework is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) but a structured agreement that operates until 31 July 2027. Its primary purpose is to streamline access to specialised legal services tailored to the health sector. By connecting NHS bodies with legal experts across various fields, it ensures efficient and effective legal support within a rapidly evolving regulatory environment.
Context & Use Case
In the complex landscape of healthcare delivery, NHS organisations frequently require expert legal advice to navigate regulatory, operational, and strategic challenges. This framework serves as a vital resource for NHS entities seeking comprehensive legal support. It provides a structured and reliable pathway to procure legal services, thereby addressing the diverse legal needs that arise from the dynamic nature of healthcare provision. Contracting authorities utilise this framework to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations while maintaining operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Scope of Services
The Legal Services for Health Framework encompasses a broad range of legal services, categorised into eleven distinct lots. These are: 1. Governance, Structure, Transformation & Public Law 2. Healthcare & Mental Health 3. Employment 4. Procurement, Commercial & Contract 5. Property & Construction 6. Technology & E-Commerce, including Intellectual Property & Media Law 7. Corporate Finance, Audit & Insurance 8. Criminal Law 9. Legal Recovery & Collection 10. Counsel Services 11. Multi-Disciplinary Support Each lot represents a specialised area of legal practice, ensuring that NHS organisations can access targeted legal expertise tailored to their specific needs.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to legal service providers who can demonstrate expertise and experience in the specified lots. Legal firms with a proven track record in healthcare-related legal matters are particularly well-suited to apply. Unlike a DPS, the application window for this framework is not open throughout its lifetime, so interested suppliers should closely monitor timelines and requirements.
Buyer Benefits
For public sector buyers, the Legal Services for Health Framework offers several advantages. It provides a compliant procurement route that ensures legal services are obtained swiftly and efficiently, reducing the administrative burden on NHS organisations. By leveraging economies of scale, the framework delivers cost-effective legal solutions without compromising on quality or expertise. Furthermore, it offers a standardised approach to pricing and service delivery, which contributes to consistency and predictability in legal support.
Lots
Lot 1: Governance, Structure, Transformation & Public Law This lot covers services related to governance, organisational structure, transformation initiatives, and public law matters. Lot 2: Healthcare & Mental Health This lot includes services pertaining to healthcare systems and mental health support. Lot 3: Employment This lot focuses on employment-related services, including labour law and workplace issues. Lot 4: Procurement, Commercial & Contract This lot addresses procurement processes, commercial agreements, and contract management. Lot 5: Property & Construction This lot encompasses services related to property management and construction projects. Lot 6: Technology & E-Commerce including IP & Media Law This lot covers technology solutions, e-commerce services, and intellectual property and media law. Lot 7: Corporate Finance, Audit & Insurance This lot provides services in corporate finance, auditing, and insurance matters. Lot 8: Criminal This lot is concerned with services related to criminal law and legal proceedings. Lot 9: Legal Recovery & Collection This lot focuses on legal recovery services and debt collection processes. Lot 10: Counsel This lot includes services provided by legal counsel and advisory support. Lot 11: Multi-Disciplinary Support This lot offers a range of multi-disciplinary support services across various sectors.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating in the Legal Services for Health Framework should review the specific requirements and criteria associated with each lot. It is advisable to contact NHS Shared Business Services directly for detailed information on the application process and any upcoming opportunities to join the framework.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable is here to assist suppliers in exploring suitable frameworks like the Legal Services for Health. We provide support in identifying relevant opportunities, preparing for applications, and enhancing visibility in the procurement pipeline. Our goal is to help suppliers navigate the public sector procurement landscape with confidence and clarity.