NHS introduces new supply chain arrangements

The NHS has introduced a new supply chain arrangement by hiring DHL to replace the duties performed by NHS Logistics, in a move the government says will save one billion pounds and create up to 1,000 new jobs.

DHL take on the responsibility of procuring NHS products, whether they are vital pieces of medical equipment or catering supplies.

The Department of Health claims that this will release and extra billion pounds worth of funds over the next ten years, while it has promised that NHS Logistics staff will receive “broadly comparable” terms under the new arrangements.

Andy Burnham, health minister, said: “NHS Logistics staff will enjoy, at the very minimum, the same terms and conditions as they have at present.”

“We have guaranteed that Agenda for Change pay rates will apply to all current staff and that new staff are not subjected to the two tier pay system that used to exist under this type of contract – exactly what the unions were asking.” he added.

Unison, the UK’s largest union, has said it will fight back against the DHL appointment, which it sees as a patent attempt to privatise the NHS.

Karen Jennings, Unison’s head of health, stated: “This is a very sad day for the NHS. Why break up an winning team like NHS Logistics and sell it off to a German parcel company like DHL? It makes no sense when there is no doubt that NHS Logistics is an NHS success story.”

“Staff across the NHS will be watching this privatisation deal which will be viewed by many as symbolic of whats to come,” she added.

© Adfero Ltd