The Work and Health and/or Employment Support Services framework is an unmissable opportunity for employment support providers and specialist recruitment organisations in the UK. With a value of £43.2 million, including VAT, this four-year framework brings together major public sector authorities, namely NHS Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care Board, NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board and Birmingham City Council. Currently in a pre-market engagement phase, the framework is seeking input from suitably experienced providers that can help deliver large-scale work and health support across multiple regions.
If you are considering bidding for the framework, contact Thornton & Lowe. Our team can provide a quick, objective review to help you assess whether this opportunity aligns with your organisation's capabilities and goals.
Why this framework matters for employment support providers
Unlike smaller contracts, this multi-authority framework gives providers access to high-value partnerships spanning health and local government. Serving the NHS and local government brings unique credibility and future-proofing to your portfolio, both in employment support and specialised work and health services. Given the considerable spend and the NHS's involvement, successful suppliers can enhance both their impact and their public sector credentials.
Crucially, the framework approach means that a range of providers, from local specialists to national players, can participate. If you offer innovative solutions or have expertise in integrating health and work support, this is your chance to demonstrate that value across various public sector settings.
Framework structure and bidding considerations
The planned framework will offer a structured but flexible model, suitable for organisations with expertise in work and health or employment support. It is being procured by NHS Arden and Greater East Midlands Commissioning Support Unit on behalf of the contracting authorities. While the full lot structure and service scope will be finalised after engagement, potential suppliers should prepare for a broad, multi-authority arrangement that favours both broad reach and specialisation.
Engagement is still open. Now is the best time to share feedback that could shape the requirements and ensure your specialist skills are reflected in the eventual service lots.
- Multi-authority framework: A single agreement gives the chance to work with NHS Birmingham & Solihull, NHS Black Country and Birmingham City Council.
- Significant contract value: £43.2 million (inc. VAT) across four years.
- Flexible participation: The framework allows for multiple types and sizes of suppliers to be involved.
Quick facts
- Authorities: NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, NHS Black Country ICB, Birmingham City Council
- Framework value: £43,200,000 (inc. VAT)
- Term: 4 years
- Procured by: NHS Arden & GEM CSU
Key dates
- Current stage: Pre-market engagement
- Engagement deadline: 16 July 2026
Tips for engaging effectively with this framework
- Understand the breadth: The framework includes multiple CPV codes and broad sector coverage. Review the published notice for the full list to ensure all your services are eligible.
- Engage early: With pre-market engagement ongoing, your feedback can shape the final structure. Use this time to highlight your specialisms or suggest practical service delivery models that match NHS and local authority needs.
- Prepare for rigorous standards: NHS and local authority frameworks are typically robust in their governance and reporting requirements. Consider how you'll demonstrate compliance, quality and scalability.
- Emphasise collaboration: Multi-authority frameworks often expect suppliers to work alongside different organisations. Show your experience in managing partnerships or cross-sector collaborations, and if you're considering teaming up with another provider to cover the full scope, our guide to consortium bids is a useful starting point.
Ready to assess your suitability? Our experts at Thornton & Lowe can help you interpret framework documents quickly, highlight red flags and advise on best-in-class public sector bid strategy. Get in touch today to make the most of this rare framework opportunity.
