July 2024 CCS framework update: Key expirations, extensions, and upcoming deadlines

The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has released its monthly framework update for July 2024, providing important information for public sector organisations to assist with procurement planning

This update covers agreements that expired, were extended, or are due to expire within the next three months. It is a critical resource for keeping stakeholders informed about the changes to key frameworks across various sectors.

No agreements were awarded in July 2024

July was relatively quiet in terms of new agreements, with no new contracts being awarded, this shows the importance of monitoring upcoming changes and expirations in existing frameworks. Stakeholders are encouraged to keep an eye on CCS updates for future opportunities and developments in the months ahead.

Agreements Extended in July 2024

One key framework extension occurred in July 2024:

• RM6175 Records Information Management, Digital Solutions, and Associated Services.

This agreement enables public sector organisations, including the NHS, to access vital services such as storage, scanning, shredding, and disposal.

It also supports the transition to digital solutions, including NHS clinic preparation and digital workflows through cloud-based services.

The extension ensures that public sector bodies can continue benefiting from these services without disruption as they adapt to evolving digital and information management needs.

Agreements that expired in July 2024

• RM6145 Learning and Development.

This agreement, which provided public sector organisations with access to services related to learning and development, officially expired in July. Public sector bodies that used this framework will need to explore alternative solutions or plan for new procurements as a result of this expiration.

Agreements due to expire in the next three months

Several agreements are set to expire over the next three months, which will impact a variety of sectors across the public sector. These include:

• RM6172 Grant Administration Services.

This dynamic purchasing system (DPS) provides access to a wide range of services for grant administration. Public sector organisations will need to prepare for the framework’s expiration to ensure continuity in managing grant programs effectively.

• RM6235 Space-Enabled and Geospatial Services.

Focused on space-enabled and geospatial technologies, this agreement is crucial for public sector bodies relying on advanced mapping, monitoring, and data analysis services. Organisations should consider their options as this framework approaches its end.

• RM6161 Provision of Clinical and Healthcare Staffing.

This agreement, approved by NHS England and NHS Improvement, facilitates the recruitment of temporary clinical and healthcare staff across various roles and pay bands. It offers flexibility through multiple service delivery methods, such as traditional agency routes, master vendor routes, and neutral vendor providers. With the framework nearing its expiration, healthcare organisations will need to ensure that staffing solutions remain effective and uninterrupted.

• RM1557.13 G-Cloud 13 and RM1557.13L4 G-Cloud 13 Lot 4.

G-Cloud 13 is an online marketplace offering cloud-based computing services like hosting, software, and support to public sector organisations. Lot 4, a newer addition to the G-Cloud 13 framework, allows for further competition in areas like cloud migration, security, quality assurance, and performance testing. Both agreements are set to expire in November 2024, and organisations currently using G-Cloud 13 services should begin preparing for potential changes to their cloud service providers.

Preparing for future procurement needs

As these agreements approach expiration, public sector bodies must review their procurement strategies and plan for alternative arrangements or extensions. CCS continues to provide support for transitioning between frameworks and offers resources to help organisations navigate the procurement landscape.

Stay informed by following CCS updates through newsletters, social media, and the interactive digital brochure that offers an overview of live frameworks.

By monitoring these changes and planning accordingly, public sector organisations can ensure that they continue to procure essential services efficiently and effectively, supporting their operational and strategic goals.