News
Training gaps could affect Procurement Act rollout
Over two-fifths (42%) healthcare professionals report having limited or no knowledge of the Procurement Act, despite it coming into force earlier this year. A new survey commissioned by Commercial Services Group, a provider of public sector procurement services, reveals significant variation in understanding and confidence within the healthcare sector when it comes to implementing the new legislation. The findings suggest additional support is vital to unlock the full potential of the Act and meet the ambitions of the National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS).
Almost a fifth (18%) of respondents say they
are not confident or are unsure of their ability to deliver on the priorities outlined in the NPPS, raising concerns about readiness across healthcare organisations. This is also reflected in a lack of awareness around training, with 17% of respondents unaware of any central government resources to support skills development related to the Act. Despite these gaps, there is cautious optimism,
over two-fifths (43%) believe the Procurement Act will help deliver high quality, accessible services for their organisation. However, more than a third (35%) feel the legislation will have little to no impact on their organisation’s strategic decision-making or approach to risk management within the supply chain, proving a disconnect between policy objectives and operational expectations. Tarryn Kerr, MD of Procurement Services,
Commercial Services Group, said: “The healthcare sector is under enormous pressure to deliver efficient, accessible services. While many recognise the potential of the Procurement Act, it’s clear that gaps in awareness, confidence, and training must be addressed if the sector is to realise the full benefits in such a demanding time. “Organisations that have the ability to adopt
expert frameworks and tools, such as contract management, can navigate these challenges more easily, ensuring compliant and strategic procurement practices that, most importantly, deliver better value for patients and communities.” As understanding of the Act continues to
develop across the public sector, disparities in preparedness remain. While some sectors, such as local government, report higher confidence levels, healthcare still appears to be lagging, risking missed opportunities across essential services. Tarryn added: “It’s encouraging to hear some
sectors feel confident implementing the new Act. With all sectors having the potential to benefit from compliant frameworks, leaders can support to improve the overall supply chain and build resilience in the public sector.”
Sponsored by
NHS begins roll-out of world-first gonorrhoea vaccine programme
People at highest risk of infection with gonorrhoea will now be better protected from the disease, as the NHS and local authorities begin the roll-out of a world-first vaccination programme in England. Sexual health clinics will now offer a free
vaccine to patients at highest risk of the sexually transmitted infection (STI), including gay and bisexual men who have a recent history of multiple sexual partners and a bacterial STI in the previous 12 months. The 4CMenB vaccine will help shield those most at risk of gonorrhoea - potentially averting up to 100,000 cases of the disease, while easing pressure on vital NHS services. It will play a significant role in the government’s shift from sickness to prevention as it makes the NHS fit for the future as part of its Plan for Change. Minister for Public Health and Prevention,
Ashley Dalton, said: “Rolling out this world- leading gonorrhoea vaccination programme in sexual health clinics in England represents a major breakthrough in preventing an infection that has reached record levels. This government’s world-first vaccination programme will help turn the tide on infections, as well as tackling head on the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.” The ground-breaking vaccination programme comes at a critical time. In 2023, a record 85,000 cases of the disease were reported in England - 3 times higher than in 2012.
Ecolab partners with Mackwell on UV-C decontamination
Ecolab is set to expand its UK & Ireland portfolio with a state-of-the-art 360° UV-C decontamination device. With waiting times at their highest and net zero targets only 15 years away, the need for efficient and sustainable systems within healthcare is greater than ever. The new Illuvi UV-C system has been designed to help ensure comprehensive environmental decontamination to help maintain healthy spaces. “The new Illuvi UV-C device will enable healthcare
organisations to enhance their existing hygiene protocols, with the aim to reduce the impact of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs),” said Rebecca Sinclair, Area Vice President for Healthcare at Ecolab. “By collaborating with Mackwell Health, we can strengthen our focus on local manufacturing – offering our customers a
12
www.clinicalservicesjournal.com I September 2025
for UV disinfection, ensuring it effectively targets a range of pathogens including bacteria, yeast, viruses, and Clostridium difficile, which alone affected nearly 17,000 patients last year. Designed with useability and safety in mind, the
sustainable solution built within the UK.” United by a commitment to sustainability, safety, and infection prevention, Ecolab and Mackwell Health have worked together to develop the new Illuvi UV-C decontamination device, which operates with low energy consumption and without the need for additional consumables. The system has been tested to meet strict safety and health standards
device can be set-up and disassembled quickly. Its smart system allows healthcare professionals to set up the device within minutes, while ensuring maximum safety with motion sensors to prevent accidental exposure to UV radiation. Nick Brangwin, CEO of Mackwell Group, commented: “Illuvi represents a step-change in UV-C disinfection performance. Our team has delivered a solution that combines world-class efficacy, advanced usability, and robust safety. We’re proud to partner with Ecolab to make this technology available across the NHS and beyond.”
wladimir1804 -
stock.adobe.com
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80
