Provision of the ONE NHS Finance Service

The proposed supplier is the same entity that provided the original service. Therefore, we propose to direct award this requirement under paragraph 7(a) and (b) of Schedule 5 of PA23 (grounds under Schedule 5) for additional or repeat goods, services, or works. This approach ensures service continuity, as:

• Incompatibility with Existing Services: A change in supplier would result in NHSE receiving services that are different from, or incompatible with, the existing ones. The proposed supplier has the technical expertise and tacit knowledge from completing the initial project. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring continuity and compatibility with the existing ONF services.
• Technical Difficulties: The difference or incompatibility would lead to disproportionate technical difficulties in operation or maintenance. The proposed suppliers familiarity with the innovations and specific requirements of the ONF initiative means that switching to a new supplier could introduce unnecessary risk and technical challenges. These could disrupt the seamless delivery and development of the ONF services.

In addition, continuity of service is essential for the oversight and delivery of training, accreditation, networks, recruitment support, health and wellbeing packages, and innovation/strategy work. This includes a comprehensive package of online delivery (website, online/in-person events, and staff support) overseen by HFMA staff funded by NHSE. Furthermore, awarding this contract to another provider would result in service disruption and additional costs associated with transitioning to an alternative provider.

It would not be possible to immediately transfer these packages and the support offer to a new supplier without causing significant delays to the services provided for staff. The following elements would require review: Programme Owners, Training Documentation, Accreditation Workstreams, Staff Networks, Funding Models, and Internal/External Events.

It is envisaged that any future re-tendering round would also require an interim handover period between suppliers, which is not feasible in 2025. Furthermore, any changes to the current arrangement may involve TUPE elements, which could not be implemented by 01/04/2025, along with the potential NHS England integration into DHSC.

By continuing with the current supplier, we ensure that the ONF initiative remains consistent and effective, leveraging the supplier’s existing knowledge and expertise to maintain high standards and avoid potential operational difficulties.