Welcome to the February edition of our Framework Agreement News, where we share the latest launches, insights, case studies and upcoming developments across our portfolio. This month highlights new routes to market, progress in digital transformation, and examples of framework agreements delivering real world impact for NHS and wider public sector organisations.
New Medical and Industrial Gases (Including Cylinders and Bulk Liquid Oxygen) Framework Agreement
Launched in January 2026, our Medical and Industrial Gases (Including Cylinders and Bulk Liquid Oxygen) Framework Agreement provides a comprehensive, cost effective and sustainable route to market for the NHS and wider public sector. Procured under the Procurement Act 2023, it includes:
- Advanced cylinder tracking systems allows for real-time monitoring allows for immediate alerts when gas levels are low, preventing critical shortages in patient care areas.
- Installation of vacuum insulated evaporators (VIE), allowing for the storage of vast amounts of gas in a compact area.
- Maintenance of VIE tanks, which ensures the vacuum remains intact, which prevents heat inleak, reduces excessive venting of gases, and maintains operational safety.
- Industrial gases to support non-NHS organisations, including Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and fire services where industrial gases are critical for breathing apparatus, cutting, rescue operations, and training.
- Innovative products and services to reduce environmental impact to help achieve Net Zero targets.
Live Tenders
The following UK4 Tender Notice is now live:
Community and Acute Equipment and Services, Including Continence Products and Delivery (SBS10525)
SAP Ariba Discovery Post:
Community and Acute Equipment and Services, Including Continence Products and Delivery – SAP Ariba Discovery Post
Find a Tender / Central Digital Platform UK 4 Tender Notice:
Community and Acute Equipment and Services, Including Continence Products and Delivery – Find a Tender / Central Digital Platform UK2 PME Notice
Upcoming Webinars
Our team is preparing a series of webinars for customers and suppliers throughout 2026, offering guidance and insights across our portfolio, helping your organisation meet its objectives.
Accelerating Digital Transformation Across the NHS
The NHS continues to face significant pressures, from rising demand to workforce challenges and legacy technology. Digital transformation is crucial to enabling efficient, patient centred care.
Our Digital & IT Framework Agreements provides compliant, sustainable and value driven access to modern technologies that strengthen digital foundations across the health system.
In our recent webinar, we explored how framework agreements support transformation efforts aligned with the ambitions set out in the 10-Year Health Plan for England.
Spotlight on Hard FM 2 – An NHS Case Study
University Hospital Lewisham appointed Skafftec Ltd T/A R&B Refurbishment under a £2.5m per year measured term contract, procured through our Hard FM 2 Framework Agreement.
This partnership provided:
- A dedicated on site team delivering reactive and planned works
- Coverage across building fabric, mechanical and electrical systems and fire safety infrastructure
- Streamlined inductions and improved communication
- Faster response times and reduced backlog maintenance
The result is a safer, more resilient and efficient hospital estate with minimal disruption to clinical services.
Launching Soon: Patient/Citizen Communication, Engagement & Hybrid Mail Solutions
Our upcoming Patient/Citizen Communication, Engagement & Hybrid Mail Solutions Framework Agreement will enable NHS and public facing organisations to deliver timely, personalised and accessible communications.
The solution will support:
- Multichannel and multilingual communication to ensure patients and citizens can understand the messaging.
- Inclusive formats to ensure patients and citizens get the information they need.
- Improved access for all citizens, allowing them to access information easier.
- Reduced Did Not Attends (DNAs) rates to support elective recovery within the NHS.
It will be available to the NHS, councils, colleges, housing providers and other organisations seeking modern, inclusive engagement tools.
Spotlight on Modular Buildings: A Wider Public Sector Case Study
Whitley Wood Fire Station has been transformed with a new two storey modular training facility delivered by Premier Modular, following irreparable damage to the previous building. Procured via our Modular Building Framework Agreement, the project prioritised speed, sustainability and minimal disruption to the operational site.
Key highlights include:
- Construction using 20 modules.
- Modern training, welfare, office and community spaces.
- Completion within just four days.
- Achieved an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM sustainability rating.
- Long term operational efficiency for the Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service
