Dynamic Framework Update
From the Dynamic Framework Sourcing team
Good afternoon,
Over the past year, HMPPS has been working diligently to streamline our systems and processes under the Probation Services Dynamic Framework (DF). We have accounted for various sources of feedback including government-wide reports, surveys, and engagement with various suppliers across different sectors. Below, you’ll see several changes, some of which have already been made; others, we intend to be rolled out by no later than August 2023. We’ll be issuing various communications in the coming months and intend to hold a webinar event as an opportunity to clarify any questions. In any event, support and assistance shall be provided throughout all changes.
In brief, we have looked at the following areas:
- Documentation – both internal and external: procurement documentation (such as the specification and financial model) has been streamlined to ease the process for potential bidders, and to simplify the onerous detail contained within previous procurement documentation, where appropriate and with due regard to proportionality for each requirement. The aim of this streamlining is to provide accessible and simple documentation for all bidders, regardless of capacity and size, and to hopefully expedite the tender process, where appropriate, in order minimise delays for bidders
- Financial evaluation for onboarding: the Authority are in the process of revising the financial aspect of the Selection Questionnaire procedure for the threshold £100k-£1m; in particular, adopting a new, simpler system against which to measure financial health, with less burden placed on the market. The Authority is also reviewing other areas involved in the financial evaluation process.
- Technical evaluation for onboarding: based on market feedback, the Authority have also made efforts to streamline the Case Study and Service Description requirement, needed to onboard for particular service categories (e.g. emotional well-being, social inclusion). Now we are looking towards implementing a ‘Statement of Suitability’ document which will generally be less restrictive in terms of the content required. This seeks to assist both new suppliers to the DF and those already onboarded who wish to add new categories to their selection questionnaire submission.
As a final note, we recognise that simplification and streamlining is an enterprise that is never complete. The Authority commits to welcoming and exploring feedback throughout the life of the DF and shall continue to issue any updates accordingly. Greater detail shall be provided as we move closer to the roll-out date; however, please do not hesitate to pose any questions in the meantime using this email: probationdynamicframework@justice.gov.uk
Many thanks,
Dynamic Framework Sourcing Team