Occupational Health, Employee Assistance Programmes and Eye Care Services
Introduction
The Occupational Health, Employee Assistance Programmes and Eye Care Services Framework is managed by the NHS Workforce Alliance. It is a structured procurement route within the Health & Social Care category, designed to facilitate access to services that support the health and well-being of employees within the NHS and associated organisations. This framework is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) and is scheduled to run until 22 March 2025. The framework is particularly focused on enhancing both the physical and mental health of employees, thereby contributing to the delivery of high-quality patient care.
Context & Use Case
In the demanding environment of healthcare, the well-being of employees is paramount, as it directly impacts the quality of care provided to patients. The framework addresses this need by offering a range of services aimed at supporting workplace health and assisting employees in managing mental health challenges. Contracting authorities utilise this framework to ensure their workforce is supported through comprehensive health services, tailored assistance programmes, and necessary eye care provisions. By providing a structured and compliant procurement process, the framework helps NHS bodies and other public sector organisations efficiently source these essential services.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into five distinct lots, each covering specific aspects of employee health and well-being: 1. Occupational Health and Employee Assistance Programmes: This lot includes services that focus on both preventive health measures and support systems to address various employee health challenges. 2. National Occupational Health: This lot provides access to occupational health services on a national scale, ensuring standardised and accessible health support across the UK. 3. Employee Assistance Programmes Only: Dedicated to offering support programmes that help employees manage personal and professional issues affecting their well-being and productivity. 4. Regional Occupational Health Only: Focuses on providing occupational health services tailored to specific regional needs, allowing for more localised and relevant support. 5. Eye Care: This lot ensures that employees have access to necessary eye care services, which are essential for those in roles requiring extensive visual tasks.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to suppliers that can provide high-quality services across the specified lots. Suitable suppliers include those specialising in occupational health, psychological support, and eye care services. While the framework itself is not a DPS, meaning it does not allow for continuous application throughout its term, eligible suppliers should ensure they meet the framework’s requirements at the point of application to be considered for inclusion.
Buyer Benefits
Public sector buyers can leverage this framework for its streamlined procurement process, compliance with regulatory requirements, and competitive supplier selection. The framework facilitates a swift route to market, allowing buyers to efficiently engage with pre-approved suppliers and access the necessary services to support their workforce. By centralising procurement efforts through this framework, buyers can ensure consistency in service delivery and benefit from economies of scale.
Lots
Lot 1: Occupational Health and Employee Assistance Programmes This lot covers services related to both occupational health and employee assistance programmes. Lot 2: National Occupational Health This lot focuses on providing occupational health services on a national scale. Lot 3: Employee Assistance Programmes only This lot is dedicated solely to employee assistance programmes. Lot 4: Regional Occupational Health only This lot provides occupational health services at a regional level. Lot 5: Eye Care This lot covers services related to eye care.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating in this framework should carefully review the specific requirements for each lot and prepare their submissions accordingly. Direct engagement with the NHS Workforce Alliance is recommended to gain detailed insights and clarify any queries regarding the application process.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable can assist suppliers by providing comprehensive insights into this framework and helping them prepare their submissions effectively. With expertise in public sector procurement, Biddable supports suppliers in discovering suitable opportunities, preparing necessary documentation, and maintaining visibility of procurement pipelines. This ensures suppliers are well-positioned to engage with frameworks like the Occupational Health, Employee Assistance Programmes and Eye Care Services Framework.