Carbon10 Group was proud to attend and support the NHS England SME Forum, hosted by Pennine Healthcare in Derby. This vital event brought together healthcare SMEs, industry leaders, and procurement specialists to discuss the Procurement Act 2023 and how it will shape the future of NHS procurement.

Our Managing Director, Eamon van der Flier, joined fellow SMEs—including P3 Medical, PocDoc, Hunter Healthcare, Mediplus Ltd, Patients Know Best, and Central Medical Supplies—to explore how SMEs can continue driving innovation, efficiency, and social value within the NHS supply chain.

With expert insights from NHS England, the Cabinet Office, and procurement specialists, the event focused on how SMEs can gain greater access to NHS contracts and contribute even more to healthcare innovation.

Key Takeaways from the Forum

• New Opportunities for SMEs – The Procurement Act 2023 is set to create greater access for SMEs in NHS procurement, enabling more innovative and agile suppliers to contribute.
• SME Contribution to NHS Spend – Currently, SMEs account for approximately 22% of the NHS procurement budget in England (British Chambers of Commerce). Discussions highlighted the need to help SMEs compete and increase this percentage.
• Collaboration is Key – Strengthening partnerships between SMEs and NHS procurement teams will be essential to driving efficiency, innovation, and to support improved patient outcomes.

Making an Impact

As a passionate advocate for SMEs in healthcare, Carbon10 Group continues to work closely with NHS leaders to ensure SMEs are recognised as essential partners in delivering cost-effective, sustainable, and high-quality healthcare solutions.

A special thank you to PocDoc for providing Healthy Heart Checks on the day, reinforcing the importance of preventative healthcare through Pennine Healthcare’s Heart of Life is Health campaign.

Looking Ahead

With SMEs already playing a crucial role in NHS procurement, it’s vital that we continue these discussions, drive innovation, and create a procurement landscape that allows SMEs to thrive.

A huge thank you to Pennine Healthcare, CEO Graeme Cameron, and all the speakers and attendees for making this such a valuable event. Carbon10 Group remains committed to supporting SMEs and working closely with the NHS to foster sustainable, innovative healthcare solutions.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Are you an SME looking to navigate NHS procurement and make an impact? Get in touch with us to learn how Carbon10 Group is working to support healthcare SMEs.