Designed to address key challenges in governance, workforce management and operational efficiency, the £150m framework agreement comprises six specialist Lots (service areas), including a newly introduced ‘Independent Workplace Investigations' Lot, developed in response to rising levels of workplace conflict.

‘Transparency, fairness and accuracy are core tenants for the NHS and wider public sector organisations,' said Rhodri Ihenacho, principal category manager – Business Services, NHS SBS.

‘Audit services are vital in supporting national priorities by ensuring accountability, transparency and efficient use of public funds. They provide objective assessments of whether public resources are managed responsibly and effectively, helping improve public service delivery, driving tangible positive results for taxpayers and instilling confidence in populations being served.

‘By bringing essential audit and workplace investigation services together under one framework agreement, we're enabling NHS and public sector organisations to quickly access and procure services from fully compliant suppliers - driving operational effectiveness, cost efficiency and value for money.'

For more information, contact the NHS SBS team at: sbs.hello@nhs.net.