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Helping NHS trusts meet sustainability targets

Posted on 20 September 2021

More than 600 new washable and recycled continence products have been added to a national framework launched by NHS Supply Chain.

The full range of washable/reusable adult and children’s products are available in a choice of colours and styles. The recycled products are available across our range of procedure pads (formally known as underpads).

The clinical and procurement teams within NHS Supply Chain: Rehabilitation, Disabled Services, Women’s Health and Associated Consumables, responded to customer feedback for more sustainable products when developing the framework.

Lisa Charlesworth, Clinical Engagement and Implementation Manager, said: “There has been a real push from our suppliers to go green, and coupled with what our customers are telling us, we are delighted to be able to add so many washable/reusable and recycled products to our framework.

“This is just one example of how NHS Supply Chain is supporting the NHS to be Carbon Net Zero by 2045. We are working with suppliers on some new and exciting ideas, including offering more eco-friendly, sustainable and biodegradable disposable products. Just some of the initiatives include suppliers using recycled ocean plastics, fully recyclable packaging and using innovative technology.”

There are more than 2,000 products on the Disposable and Washable Continence Care and Associated Products framework, including 1,200 new products from new and incumbent suppliers. Disposable and washable continence products are used throughout the NHS in both acute hospital wards and for patients in their own home or a care home.

There are eight Lots on the new framework:

The framework runs until August 2023 (with an option to extend for an additional 24 months). Full details are available via https://www.supplychain.nhs.uk/product-information/contract-launch-brief/disposable-and-washable-continence-care-and-associated-products/