The NHS is signalling a significant shift in how investigations and learning responses are managed across the healthcare and social care sector. The Independent Learning Responses Framework, launched in pre-market engagement by NHS England in collaboration with the East of England NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub (EoE NHS CPH), aims to establish a new, long-term framework agreement with a total value of £24,000,000 including VAT over eight years. This framework is designed to replace and improve upon the existing Independent Investigations framework. If you provide independent learning response, investigation, assurance or improvement services to NHS bodies, this pre-market engagement could shape one of the largest procurement routes of its kind in years.
If you are considering bidding for the Independent Learning Responses Framework, contact Thornton & Lowe for an expert, no-obligation review on whether it is likely to suit your organisation. We can quickly help you assess if the opportunity aligns with your core strengths, freeing you to focus your bid resources effectively.
Why the Independent Learning Responses Framework matters
This proposed framework, valued at £24 million including VAT, is intended to provide a route for NHS bodies to procure independent expertise for learning responses and investigations, replacing the existing Independent Investigations framework. With procurement steered by NHS England and the EoE NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub, suppliers have a chance to shape the future service standards and delivery models. Frameworks of this size create long-lasting, predictable business pipelines and position suppliers as trusted partners across multiple NHS authorities.
The proposed framework is expected to be used by NHS England investigation teams, national commissioning teams and other authorised NHS commissioners, creating the potential for work across a broad NHS landscape. This breadth also means the requirements could be diverse, spanning different service categories and specialisms, so suppliers are encouraged to review the official notice details and prepare broad yet responsive solutions.
Bidding considerations: Secure your place on a major NHS framework
The Find a Tender notice makes it clear this is at the pre-market engagement stage rather than a live invitation to tender. The buyer is seeking supplier input to inform how the Independent Learning Responses Framework will be structured and what the ultimate procurement process should look like. By taking part, you can influence how lotting is approached, the flexibility of the framework, and how complex requirements are defined. You’ll also gain early intelligence that could help you prepare stronger future submissions.
Below are some practical steps tied directly to this opportunity:
- Engage with pre-market dialogue: Ensure your feedback is included by responding to the official engagement activities – this can shape lot design and selection approaches.
- Review how the future framework could be structured: This is the point at which suppliers can influence service categories, scope and flexibility before the formal procurement begins.
- Consider the long-term value: With an 8-year term and £24m value, this is ideal for suppliers seeking reliable business and scalable delivery models. Plan your resources accordingly.
- Monitor official updates: Since the opportunity is not yet live, register for alerts to track publication of the full tender when it is released.
Quick facts
- Framework type: Framework agreement (pre-market engagement phase)
- Buyers: NHS England & EoE NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub
Potentially other NHS and public sector health bodies in England - Estimated value: £24,000,000 including VAT
- Initial term: 4 May 2027 to 3 May 2029, with possible extension to 3 May 2035
- Replacement for: Independent Investigations framework
Key dates
- Pre-market engagement live now
- Feedback/submissions deadline: 27th April 2026
The opportunity presents major strategic value for any healthcare or social care supplier aiming to influence and win work with NHS buyers. Multiple call-off routes mean broad visibility and variety in delivery, but early engagement will boost your understanding of buyer intent and future competition.
Next steps: If you want to discuss the Independent Learning Responses Framework in detail, or would like tailored support during pre-market engagement or when the live tender is published, get in touch with Thornton & Lowe today. Our public sector team can help you position your services and resources ahead of your competition and secure your long-term place in NHS frameworks.
