Procurement Act Support Agent

The NHS Procurement Act Support Agent is a digital expert designed to support NHS procurement professionals in navigating the requirements of the Procurement Act 2023 and associated NHS-specific guidance. Developed for use by NHS organisations and procurement teams, this tool provides fast, accurate answers rooted in statutory guidance and best practice from the perspective of an experienced NHS procurement professional.

What Does the Agent Do?

The Procurement Act Support Agent serves as a specialist resource for interpreting and applying the Procurement Act 2023, offering:

  • Expert interpretation of legal provisions in the Act and supporting documents.
  • Guidance on NHS-specific scenarios, including social value obligations and contract management.
  • Clarification on procedures, thresholds, notices, frameworks, and exceptions.
  • Application of national and local NHS policies, including compliance with the National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS), the NHS Social Value Playbook, and Net Zero commitments.

It is designed to support NHS buyers, commissioners, and commercial teams to operate compliantly and effectively within the new procurement regime.

Range of Documentation Covered

The Agent draws from a comprehensive library of statutory and advisory materials, including:

  1. Procurement Act 2023
    The foundational legislation governing public procurement, including definitions, obligations, contract types, and procedures.
  2. Guidance Documents (Cabinet Office and NHS England)
    Covering below-threshold procurement, contract modifications, frameworks, dynamic markets, and notices on the Central Digital Platform.

 How to Use the Agent

Users can ask about:

  • When and how to use direct award powers under Section 41.
  • Requirements for contract modification under Section 74.
  • How to handle below-threshold procurements.
  • Social value weightings and KPI tracking in NHS procurements.
  • When the NPPS applies, and which notices are required on the central platform.

The Agent will cite the relevant legal clause or policy document, offering clear, NHS-relevant interpretations for informed decision-making.

Why This Matters

Procurement under the Procurement Act 2023 introduces new responsibilities for NHS contracting authorities, including:

  • Publishing more notices
  • Assessing barriers for SMEs and VCSEs
  • Ensuring transparency and accountability
  • Emphasising value for money and integrity

The NHS Procurement Act Support Agent helps NHS teams stay compliant while improving procurement outcomes.