Virtual Private Network (VPN) Software

The Contracting Authority (NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board) has awarded a Call-Off Contract for provision of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) Software in accordance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (which are the regulations under which the Framework Agreement was established prior to Procurement Act 2023 coming into force (24th Feb 2025)), using via a compliant Call-Off under the Crown Commercial Services (CCS) G-Cloud 14 Framework Agreement (RM1557.14), Lot 2: Cloud Software.

As a result of the evaluation undertaken in accordance with the Framework Guidance and Rules, Healthroam Limited - was selected as Preferred Bidder for their Healthroam Remote provision. This is a cloud-based, always-on remote access VPN service designed for the NHS. It enables secure, encrypted connectivity to HSCN and other NHS systems using passwordless single sign-on-including integration with NHSMail-for clinicians and staff working off-site. It eliminates the delays and administration associated with traditional VPNs, allowing fast setup and self-enrolment on any device (Windows, macOS, and optionally iOS/Android) with minimal IT support. Healthroam Remote is primarily used to:

• Provide reliable remote or roaming access for GPs, locums, and mobile NHS teams,
• Support cross-site collaboration and integrated care by enabling users to access systems seamlessly across different trusts and care settings,
• Enhance operational resilience, reducing administrative overheads and removing barriers caused by credential/token delays

The contract commences 01st April 2025 and expires 30th March 2028 with an option to extend for a further 24 months until 30th March 2030. The aggregate contract value awarded is £103,680 including VAT (£20,736 per annum).

The Procurement Act guidance (Guidance: transitional and saving arrangements (HTML) - GOV.UK) states that any contracts awarded through a framework agreement under the previous legislation will continue to be managed in accordance with that legislation. As such, this call-off contract awarded under RM1557.14 - G Cloud 14 Framework that was established on 29/10/2024 under the PCR 15 will continue to require publication of the relevant notices for that framework under the PCR 15 until the call-off contract is terminated (for whatever reason), even if the framework itself has ended. This Contract Award Notice is being published in accordance with the requirements for sub-central contracting authorities, NHS Trusts and NHS Foundation Trusts where the contract value is at least £30,000 inclusive of VAT in accordance with the PCR 15.