In this case study we explain how a new department with no experience of recruiting contractors used the Non Clinical Temporary and Fixed Term Staff framework to help them fulfil their vision.

Published 26 October 2020

Last updated 26 October 2020


NHSX is a newly formed department established to lead digital transformation and IT policy across the NHS. They are working closely with the Government Digital Service, bringing together teams from the Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England and NHS Improvement into a central unit. 

Attracting talented contractors

NHSX needed to recruit experienced contractors so they could create digital delivery teams at pace. They had never hired any contractors before, so turned to the Non Clinical Temporary and Fixed Term Staff framework to help them find a recruitment partner.

They wanted to work with an agency with a large network of digital professionals to ensure they could attract talented contractors. Through the framework they appointed Investigo.

Lauren Pocknell, Senior Consultant at Investigo managed the recruitment process for NHSX. This ranged from helping them with budgets and explaining how the recruitment of contractors works to sharing in-depth knowledge on everything from salaries and market intelligence, to IR35 legislation and ensuring the HMRC Check Employment Status for Tax (CEST) process was followed.

This support has helped NHSX achieve their goals quicker than anticipated, whilst ultimately saving them both money and time. 

Rapid response during COVID-19

Many NHSX permanent staff have been seconded into other areas during COVID-19. This has meant deadlines and budgets have become even tighter, however, as Lauren explained:

They have still been able to keep all their plates spinning thanks to the ease of getting contractors in so quickly via the framework. We’ve managed to turn things around in a matter of days, which has been very effective during this time when additional support is needed.

Leanne Summer, Digital Ecosystem Lead at NHSX added: 

Everything from initial contact through the whole tendering and on boarding was seamless and hassle free. Aftercare has been spot on. 

Empowering your to make better recruitment decisions

We can help you with all your temporary recruitment needs. Find out more:

NHS customers can access non clinical temporary recruitment solutions through the NHS Workforce Alliance portfolio, which includes the Non Clinical Temporary and Fixed Term Staff framework.