A robust mid-point review was conducted which was key in developing future communications and engagement actions with planning requirements for the new procurement.

Background

Clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in Lancashire and South Cumbria are re-procuring audiology services across the area. NHS Midlands and Lancashire was commissioned to undertake a review at the mid-point of the re-procurement process to identify:​

• good practice to include in the remaining phase of engagement​
• recommendations to further strengthen the next phase of engagement​
• good practice and recommendations to ensure the CCGs are evidencing “due regard” as defined in the Equality Act 2010. ​

Action

Communications and Engagement Consultant Ruth Boyd reviewed work up to the mid-point with a specific focus on compliance against:​

• NHSE Planning and Assuring Service Change Guidance, March 2018 ​
• Gunning principles derived from case law that set the principles for good engagement and consultation practice (this procurement process does not, as yet require consultation)​
• Brown and Bracking principles that identify the considerations that should be made regarding inequalities and inclusion.​

Impact

This review identified both good practice and some key learning points to take forward in the next phase of the procurement process. ​

Its findings served as a platform for developing the updated communications and engagement plan for circulation and agreement with Integrated Care System communication and engagement leads and the Leadership Group for this procurement across Lancashire and South Cumbria.​

The review ensured that all engagement to date is captured and that further engagement is recorded and acted upon for the remainder of the process.​

Feedback

“The mid-point review that Ruth conducted has been a major part of a robust review process for a large procurement. It has been instrumental to helping to inform future communications and engagement actions and planning requirements for the new procurement.  ​

The processes and documentation that Ruth developed are in line with national requirements and have provided a solid platform for the CCG to conduct a review and support future plans.”

Samantha Wallace, Integrated Care Service, Transformation Lead, Blackburn with Darwen CCG​

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