There have been significant changes in the requirements for tendering with the NHS over the last few years, especially regarding sustainability.

Join Sarah Joy Newton, a sustainability and NHS procurement subject matter expert and tender bid writer in this live webinar to hear about what has changed and how to ensure you are prepared for tenders and to deliver that all-important winning bid.

We will cover compliance required for:

• NHS Net Zero

• Evergreen

• Social Value

• Modern Slavery

• NHS England Roadmap – next milestones

This will be a live session so there will also be an opportunity to ask questions directly to Sarah.

*Please note: Registration to this webinar is only available to members of the BHTA

If you are unable to attend, be sure to register anyway to receive a copy of the slides and recording after the event.

About the speaker

Sarah is a qualified nurse in adult and paediatric care, with an additional 15 years of excelling in the medical device industry. She is known for her enthusiasm and energy, with a genuine desire to ensure that, as well as product and company success, patient outcomes are improved, and customers’ needs are met. Sarah’s nursing and medical sales experience has given her a unique understanding and knowledge of the workings of the NHS and procurement, and she has established contacts and working relationships within the sector.

A particular area of expertise is the new public procurement requirements including social value, net-zero, labour standards, and modern slavery. Sarah works proactively with clients to implement and provide solutions to ensure they are able to successfully win tender bids. She is also an experienced tender bid writer, and ISO 9001 & 14001 internal auditor.

www.amethystconnect.co.uk

Welcome to the 2023-2024 Annual Review of the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA).

We appreciate you taking the time to reflect on our activities and achievements over the past year.

On 29th December 2024, BHTA held its Industry Awards Ceremony in the Grand Hotel, Birmingham. Aimed at celebrating excellence within the industry, the night brought together members from across the association for a night of good food, 8 awards categories, and dancing.

The event was hosted by Melissa Johns, an actor and writer who champions diversity and inclusivity in the arts, and who was born without her right forearm and hand.

See the day in pictures below:

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Join BHTA’s CEO, David Stockdale, and Tendo’s Senior Account Director, Daniel Laing, for an insightful discussion regarding the Labour Government’s first budget (released 30th October).

Our free BHTA presents… ‘What the October ’24 Budget and Industrial Strategy will mean for BHTA members’ webinar takes place on Friday 8th November 2024, at 11am.

As members of a critical sector providing essential healthcare products, BHTA members may be concerned about upcoming financial challenges following the newly released budget. We’ll explore how the potential consequences for businesses of handling increased business expenses, and how these could overshadow the Government’s investment efforts in the NHS and Local Authorities.

As we look to the future and pursue our common mission of supporting timely and effective care delivery, we encourage all members to remain informed of the Government’s actions and how we can all advocate for the industry.

Attendees are encouraged to share their feedback on the Budget, as well as ideas on how BHTA can engage more with the Government.

We look forward to seeing you there!

*Please note: Registration to this webinar is only available to members of the BHTA

If you are unable to attend, be sure to register anyway to receive a copy of the slides and recording after the event.

About the speaker

Daniel Laing is the Senior Account Director at Tendo Consulting.

Daniel provides strategic advice and expertise to a range of clients at Tendo utilising his eight years in public affairs, research and campaigning. Having worked at a major political intelligence agency leading the health consultancy team, he has first rate expertise navigating the life sciences sector for pharmaceutical clients, health organisations and research bodies. He also has extensive experience working on local government research initiatives, in-house public affairs for a UK children’s charity and writing for political publications.

On 23rd October 2024, BHTA held a Parliamentary drop-in event to ask MPs to pledge their support for the Scrap The Heart Restart Tax campaign. The campaign, fronted by 20-year-old Jack Hurley, who collapsed whilst playing football last June and was saved by the local club defibrillator, is calling for the VAT tax applied to these life-saving devices to be scrapped.

Removing this extra cost (which can be up to £500), would make defibrillators more affordable, meaning more can be bought and made available in local communities.

The drop-in event, held at Westminster, was attended by over 65 parliamentarians, including opposition frontbenchers and members of the Health and Social Care Select Committee.

Jack and BHTA CEO, David Stockdale, also handed a petition to No.10 Downing St., signed by over 85,000 people in support of the campaign.

See the day in pictures below:

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BHTA Presents… Everything you’ve always wanted to know about LOLER

Watch Michael Cook explain LOLER to the Stairlifts and Access Section, October 2024.

Watch the webinar

An all-new course designed for organisations involved in selling daily living equipment to enable their staff to be fully trained and certified to provide ethical and reliable advice.

Bringing the OT community together

Rise4Disability: Bringing Accessibility, Innovation, and Inclusivity to Milton Keynes.

The British Healthcare Trades Association partners with companies across the industry to produce guidance documents, promote exhibitions and shows, and provide support and training for our members. Partners receive a range of promotional, networking and commercial opportunities.

BHTA PARTNERS

The Wheelchair Alliance champion national accountability for wheelchair users and their carers. Their mission is to be an umbrella organisation that represents all things related to wheelchairs and postural support, providing a louder voice and greater influence.

Learn more at https://www.wheelchair-alliance.co.uk/

Make UK champions and celebrates British manufacturing and manufacturers, building a platform for the evolution of UK manufacturing. They enable manufacturers to connect, share, solve problems and create opportunities together through regional and national meetings, groups, events and advisory boards. They work at every level to ensure UK Manufacturing performs and grows, now and in the future.

Learn more at https://www.makeuk.org/

TACT was established in 2022 by its founder Clare Barber. Trusted Assessing and Care Training’s vision is to provide comprehensive programmes for health, social care and housing professionals involved in enabling older and disabled people to live independently. In 2023 TACT launched a range of training courses devised and run by the team that created the leading Trusted Assessor programme in the industry. Offering both Trusted Assessor, Trusted Advisor and related courses UK-wide.

Learn more at https://trustedassessing.com/

Living Made Easy is the charity previously known as the Disabled Living Foundation. 

Since 1969 the DLF has been providing free impartial advice and information on solutions, gadgets, adaptations and aids to make life easier. 

Living Made Easy is part of Shaw Trust, one of the largest charities in the UK and together they believe in fairness, equality and opportunity. They believe everyone has the right to live a decent and dignified life.

Learn more about Living Made Easy at https://livingmadeeasy.org.uk

Foundations was established to support the growth and development of Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs) across England. The team is committed to handling a wide array of adaptation requests with a deep understanding of the personal stories they represent. They blend technical expertise with a real passion for bringing innovative solutions to the table, aiming to make they work both efficient and rewarding.

Learn more about Foundations at https://www.foundations.uk.com/

CloserStill run high-quality, industry-specific exhibitions, conferences, publications and communities around the world. They are passionate about facilitating B2B networking, knowledge-sharing and excellence. Their award-winning brands play a vital role in connecting businesses and professionals, fostering growth and innovation.

CloserStill run the OT Show.

Learn more about CloserStill at https://www.closerstillmedia.com/

ROARB2B focuses on sectors that are critical to how we live, communicate and work, both now and in the future. From effective management of the aging population and large scale commercial recycling, to the technology of tomorrow.

ROARB2B run Naidex.

Learn more about ROARB2B at https://www.roarb2b.com/

Become a Partner

To become a BHTA Partner, please contact us on 020 7702 2141.

Buildings should always be insured for the amount it would cost to rebuild them. However, fewer than
one in ten commercial properties in the UK are covered correctly.

If you are over-insured you are probably paying too much for your buildings insurance. If you are underinsured, you face a reduced payout in the event of a claim. Insurance claims can be reduced by hundreds of thousands of pounds due to underinsurance.

Getting someone to visit your property to carry out a professional assessment can be time-consuming and very expensive. However, thanks to Verlingue’s partnership with RebuildCostASSESSMENT.com they can offer you a reliable low-cost service from a ‘Regulated by RICS’ (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) organisation.

You’ll receive a comprehensive Rebuild Cost Assessment (RCA) report guiding you on how much you should insure your buildings for. This is a fantastic and affordable online service that can protect your
organisation from the potentially severe consequences of underinsurance.

Price: £114.79 excl VAT

Email Verlingue at: stephen.aldridge@verlingue.co.uk
Or phone them on: 07557264091

BHTA Presents… BHTA Membership Survey Results

Watch BHTA CEO David Stockdale as he delivers invaluable insights to inform both BHTA and member strategic decision-making. Gain a competitive edge by understanding the shape of the industry directly from those driving it forward, and discover how BHTA will be taking these key industry insights to inform future work going live from 19 June 2024.

Recorded: 19 June 2024

BHTA presents… topic: BHTA Membership Survey Results

Presenter: David Stockdale, BHTA CEO

Synopsis: Discover how BHTA will be taking key industry insights to inform future work

Request the webinar slides…

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Request the webinar slides by contacting marketing@bhta.com

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Watch the webinar

About the speaker

David Stockdale joined the BHTA as its Chief Executive in June 2022, bringing more than two decades of senior management and leadership experience to the role.

David lives and works in Sheffield, has two teenage children and has a love of ice hockey, literature, hiking and swimming. He is also a mentor for the Sheffield City Region Launchpad initiative – a fully funded business support programme delivered across the Sheffield City Region. In addition, he is a Trustee and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Sheffield Young Carers Project, as well as a Founding Member of the Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Special Interest Group.

For over 100 years, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has brought together hundreds of healthcare and assistive technologies organisations to facilitate business, raise industry standards, and protect consumers. The BHTA seeks to bring the industry together to support and improve the health and care of the nation. The BHTA and its members continue to come together to help the industry overcome its challenges.

BHTA’s Code of Practice is approved under the Chartered Trading Standards Institute Consumer Codes Approval Scheme. This means Code Members have the right to display the combined BHTA CTSI logos and customers can be confident they will be treated fairly. The BHTA Code is the only Trading Standards approved code in the healthcare sector.

The Code is reviewed regularly, with input from external organisations.

By entering into their BHTA Membership Agreement, every member commits to the Code. Membership of BHTA and adherence to the Code shows customers, suppliers and employees that BHTA members’ businesses operate to higher standards of customer protection than the law requires.

Current relevant statutory and regulatory requirements referred to in the Code include, but are not limited to:

• Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008

• The British Codes of Advertising Sales Promotion and Direct Marketing

• The Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013

• Health & Safety regulations

• Transport legislation governing the operation of goods vehicles  Consumer Rights Act 2015 (After 5th October 2015)

The BHTA Code of Practice – Updated 2024

There is no charge to the complainant at any stage in the BHTA complaints procedure or the arbitration process described below.  The combined process should normally be concluded within 90 days of BHTA being satisfied it has all the information it needs to address the matter.

When BHTA receives notification in writing of a complaint against a Code member, it will consider whether the company:

• has infringed on the complainant’s legal rights
• has been inefficient or caused undue delay in a way that has resulted in the complainant losing money or suffering inconvenience
• has not complied with this Code of Practice

BHTA cannot deal with a complaint if:

• the complaint is against a company that is not a Code member or the complaint relates to a point in time prior to the company becoming a Code member
• until the complainant has gone through the company’s complaints process
• the complaint is being or has been dealt with by a court, an alternative dispute resolution provider, or similar body
• the purchase was more than six years ago
• the complaint is deemed vexatious

BHTA will:

• need to see all the complainant’s documentation
• ask the member to provide a full report within 7 working days
• look for evidence of any breaches of this Code
• attempt to settle the dispute by agreement between the two parties

If agreement between the member and their customer cannot be reached, the complainant

has two options:

• to take up their own independent court action
• referral by BHTA to the Independent Arbitrator

Where referral to the Independent Arbitrator is chosen, BHTA will pass all the evidence gathered, including copies of all correspondence to the Independent Arbitrator within five working days.  Either party may make a direct representation of further evidence to the Arbitrator. The Arbitrator’s decision is binding.

Independent Arbitrator

The objective of the Arbitrator is to arrive at a conclusion that is fair and reasonable in the circumstances, looking at all the evidence presented by both parties.  The Arbitrator is an individual who is independent from BHTA and from the industry.  Technical expertise will be called upon for input should this prove necessary.  The Arbitrator’s initial reaction will be notified to the parties concerned within seven working days and normally, a conclusion should be reached within fifteen working days.  If further evidence is presented by either party, this may prolong proceedings.

The Arbitrator’s findings will be issued in writing and will give a summary of the facts, the conclusions and reasons for reaching them.  The Arbitrator’s decision is binding on both parties. 

If the conclusion is that the Code member is at fault, the Arbitrator may for example give direction that they must:

• repay all money paid by the complainant
• replace or repair the product without charge
• take all reasonable steps, including any specified actions, to prevent a recurrence of any breach of this Code of Practice
• pay compensation to the complainant, the amount to be decided by the Arbitrator based on the evidence and circumstances
• pay any costs incurred by BHTA and/or the Independent Arbitrator

Consumer Credit Act 1974 – Consumers who enter into a credit agreement have a right to a 5-day cooling off period from the date the consumer receives a copy of the executed agreement regardless of whether the visit was pre-arranged.

Where cancellation rights apply or are offered, the customer must be informed under what circumstances they may cancel and this should be plainly visible in the paperwork given to the customer, for example, next to the signature box, and be in large bold type.  Where a customer has indicated they have poor eyesight or are confused by paperwork, the salesperson should go through the paperwork with them. 

Per the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 a cancellation form must be provided setting out:

• that a cancellation period applies and the date from which it starts
• the length of the cancellation period
• how to cancel

If a deposit will not be refundable or will be only part-refundable, this must be made clear when the customer places the order and the reasons for this must be described to them, in writing.  If the customer cancels the contract properly full repayment should occur (unless, for example, the goods have been damaged after delivery), and in any circumstance, money withheld should not amount to more than the net costs or net loss of profit incurred by the Code member.

If a member chooses to offer a cancellation period longer than required by the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 (14 days) or to offer cancellation to customer other than consumers this should be clearly detailed by the member on their website and in their paperwork.

Code members are expected to provide a high standard of after-sales service and to ensure a prompt and adequate service and repair policy.

Prompt will normally be taken to mean response and (where appropriate) visit within 3 working days of the request, unless otherwise agreed.  No customer should be without equipment on which they rely for mobility and/or daily living for more than 14 days.  (Exceptions may occur, for example, where a customer has bespoke needs that cannot be met from normal stock held, or where a hospital/clinic appointments system must be followed, however, every effort must be made to keep the period the customer is without mobility to a minimum.)

Guarantees/warranties must be in writing, and be clear and unambiguous.  They do not affect a consumer’s statutory rights and all guarantees and warranties used by Code members should carry a statement making this clear.  Distributors and retailers must pass on the individual parts and labour guarantee offered by the manufacturer, and abide by the terms contained in the guarantee during its currency.

There must be no high-pressure selling of additional warranties, nor any misrepresentation of their costs, coverage, and any benefits they provide.

A minimum 3-month guarantee must be offered in respect of all repair work carried out.

It must be explained to the purchaser that no claim will be met under guarantee if the product has been abused in any way, or damaged by neglect, improper use or failure to maintain in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, or has been damaged in any accident.  Abnormal wear and tear will also be considered when assessing a guarantee claim.

If, after purchase, the customer wishes to sell the product to another consumer, the transfer of a valid guarantee/warranty should be possible and a mechanism should be in place to facilitate this.

Maintenance agreements must be clear and unambiguous and the covered duration must be stated.  If the agreement includes an annual service it should be evident whether the business will contact the customer to arrange this.

If a company has a buy-back policy this must be clear and unambiguous, and be outlined to the customer in writing in advance of the sale taking place.  Any reason for not buying back the product, for example because it is single-use, or bespoke, must be stated and the reason made clear.  Companies that do not buy back products under any circumstances should be prepared to make available an advice sheet on how to sell the product and advise on the likely second-hand value.

Customers must be given a clear explanation of the basis for charging for repair work not covered by warranty/guarantee and, where practicable, a written estimate in advance, of the anticipated costs of such work.  (Customers have the legal right to refund, repair, or replacement for goods that are identified as being faulty, as set out in the Consumer Rights Act 2015.)

When work has been carried out, a schedule of the work (labour, parts, etc) should accompany the invoice, detailing a breakdown of costs.

Adequate stocks of components/parts should be held to facilitate prompt service.

Customers should be given details of opening hours, contact telephone numbers, and arrangements, if any, for emergencies out of hours.

Reasonable care should be exercised in protecting customers’ property whilst in the company’s possession and companies should not seek any disclaimers to avoid liability for loss or damage.  Companies are advised to ensure they are adequately insured to cover such liability, as well as cover against any claims for death, personal injury, and damage to property arising out of the demonstration of goods or their use after sale.

If a company is prepared to remove unwanted products, the terms under which they will do so must be made clear when this is requested, particularly regarding disposal.

Terms and conditions must not imply that consumers do not have rights beyond the end of any warranty/guarantee period.  They must be appropriate for the type of business and customer mix and should be consistent across all forms of communication (hard copy, website, telephone).

If a product is built to a consumer’s specifications (i.e.in a way that is not achievable with accessories/modular components and where additional fabrication outside routine manufacture is required, or using materials supplied by the customer), they must be made aware that the product will be “bespoke.”  Any changes this may cause to cancellation rights must be explained to them and must be notified in writing.

All verbal claims or promises made by the salesperson must be in writing, either on the contract, on a separate form, or by letter.  

Pricing information showing the total price and providing a breakdown, where appropriate, of that total showing e.g. delivery, VAT, credit charges, discount applied, part exchange applied, must be given in writing.  Prices must be made available to the customer at the earliest possible stage.

Details of any finance agreement and APR should be explained so that the customer understands how much they will be paying and what the terms of the contract are.  Pre-contract information must be sent/presented on its own, allowing time for the consumer to pause and reflect on affordability and to compare credit, before being presented with the agreement to be signed.  

Consumers must be given the option of paying for Payment Protection Insurance and other insurances up front, rather than these being offered automatically on credit.  It must be made clear that customers have the right to cancel hire purchase and conditional sale agreements and only pay 50%.  This does not extend to the insurance mentioned above.

Details of delivery, installation, training, after-sales support, service and warranty should be made available prior to sale.

Delivery and completion dates should be discussed with the customer in advance of ordering/making the purchase and a choice of delivery dates and times should be offered.  For mail-order and Internet orders, normal delivery times should be indicated.  Should it become clear these can not be met, the customer must be informed as soon as practicable, with an honest explanation of the reason for the delay.  The customer should have the right to cancel without penalty if the order is not delivered within the stipulated time.

Where tuition is necessary for the safe use of a product, reasonable and fair tuition for its use under the conditions that the purchaser best describes as “normal” for his/her purposes must be offered prior to the conclusion of a sale.  If such tuition is declined, a record must be made of that fact and the reasons given. 

In particular tuition in the control of mobility vehicles should be given at the time of purchase and/or on delivery.  Tuition levels will vary according to:

• the user’s abilities and experience
• the type of vehicle
• the circumstances of use
• the kind of attendant support expected

Tuition should follow a proper assessment of needs, wishes, abilities and disabilities to enable selection of the most suitable vehicle and specification for user and circumstances.  A vehicle should only be sold if the member can realistically expect the user to develop satisfactory control.  (A document outlining tuition requirements is available on request from BHTA, as is one which sets out what should be recorded when assessing competency to use a powerchair or mobility scooter.)

Linked Goods and Services

If the product will need servicing regularly, an explanation must be given as to what is entailed, and the likely costs thereof should be outlined.  It should be clear whether maintenance is offered / available or will have to be obtained elsewhere.

Where appropriate, arrangements for insuring the product should be discussed, or leaflets regarding such insurance should be made available.  If insurance is discussed, it must be clear that it is cancellable, the consumer must be given the option to pay for it upfront rather than as part of a credit agreement and it must be made clear to whom any refund will be paid in the event of cancellation.

Any optional guarantees / warranties must be explained, including who is offering them and what the benefits are, or leaflets that do this must be provided.

Clear, accurate information on the availability and price of all the above and any other linked goods and services must be provided in writing.

Instructions for Use / Manuals

Any instructions for use and manuals should be written in clear language, and those responsible for their production should be aware that versions in large print, or on audio tape, may be requested and this must be facilitated as swiftly as is practicable.

Such instructions/manual must be made available with all new products, and should, if feasible, be made available with second-hand products.  The customer’s attention should be drawn to user manuals and they should be informed of the need to read them thoroughly.

Depending on the nature of the product, the instructions/manual should cover all or some of the following (this is not an exhaustive list):

• Product name, description and intended purpose
• Name of manufacturer and/or supplier
• Illustration of the product
• Reference to any variants or accessories
• General, or detailed, dimensions
• General, or detailed, description of construction
• Explanation of how to use it safely
• Any known limitations
• Description of maintenance requirements including recommended frequency of servicing
• Cleaning / decontamination instructions
• Any specific warnings

Rental Products

Where product is rented, the terms and conditions of the rental must be clear and unambiguous, including responsibility for any damage to the product, insurance requirements, and, where appropriate, the responsibilities for decontamination / cleaning of the product, and packaging for return.

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, certain standards apply to every transaction for the sale and supply of goods (including hire purchase, hire, part exchange and contracts for work and materials).

Retailer Liability. The person transferring or selling the goods must have the right to do so and the goods must:

Be of a satisfactory quality.  Goods must be of a standard that a reasonable person would regard as satisfactory.  In assessing quality, all relevant circumstances must be considered, including price, description and your or the manufacturer’s advertising.  Quality is a general term, which covers a number of matters, including:

• fitness for all the purposes for which goods of that kind are usually supplied
• appearance and finish
• freedom from minor defects
• safety
• durability

Be fit for a particular purpose.  When a consumer indicates that goods are required for a particular purpose, or where it is obvious that goods are intended for a particular purpose and a trader supplies them to meet that requirement, the goods should be fit for that specified purpose.

Match the description, sample or model.  When a consumer relies on a description, sample or display model the goods supplied must conform to it.  If the goods do not conform, an offence may have been committed

Be installed correctly, where installation has been agreed as part of the contract.

Remedies for breach of the above

The short-term right to reject

If, when they are supplied, the goods do not meet the requirements above, there is a short period during which the consumer is entitled to reject them.  This short-term right to reject goods lasts for 30 days unless the expected life of the goods is shorter, as with highly perishable goods.  The 30-day period does not start until the consumer has ownership (or, for hire, hire-purchase and conditional sale, the consumer has possession) of the goods, and the goods have been delivered.

In addition, if the trader has agreed to do anything else to the goods (for example, to install them), the 30-day period does not start running until this is done.  However, the short-term right to reject does not apply if the only breach is that the goods have been installed incorrectly.

If the consumer asks for or agrees to a repair or replacement during this initial 30-day period, the period is paused so that the consumer has the remainder of the 30-day period or seven days (whichever is longer) to check whether the repair or replacement has been successful and to decide whether to reject the goods.

When a consumer rejects goods they can claim a refund (which can include the return of items handed over in exchange or part-exchange).  This would be a full refund or, in the case of hire, a refund for any part of the hire that was paid for but not supplied.  They are also released from all their outstanding obligations under the contract – for example, the outstanding instalments in a contract of hire purchase.  A refund must be given without undue delay and in any event within 14 days of the trader agreeing that the consumer is entitled to a refund.  In some cases (for example, where the exchanged goods have already been sold on) a refund cannot be claimed under the Act, but the consumer would be entitled to claim damages (monetary compensation) for any losses incurred.

The trader is responsible for the reasonable cost of returning the goods except where the consumer is returning them to the place where they took possession of them; for example, the retail shop where they bought them.  However, the consumer is not required to return the goods to this place unless this was agreed from the outset as part of the contract.  Even if the consumer returns goods to the shop, they may in some circumstances be able to claim some or all of that cost from the trader – for example, where a motor vehicle breaks down and the consumer has to pay for a recovery service to return it.

Repair or replacement

When there is a breach of contract, but the consumer has lost or chooses not to exercise their right to reject goods, they will be entitled in the first instance to claim a repair or replacement.

Where a repair or replacement is claimed, the trader must do this at no cost to the consumer, within a reasonable time and without causing significant inconvenience.

The consumer cannot choose one of these remedies above the other if the chosen remedy is either impossible or disproportionate as compared to the other remedy.  Also, once the consumer has chosen a remedy, they must give the trader a reasonable time to provide that remedy.

The remedies fail if, after just one attempt at repair or replacement, the goods still do not meet the necessary requirements.  The consumer does not have to give the trader multiple opportunities to repair or replace, although they can do so if they wish.  The remedies also fail if they are not provided within a reasonable time and without causing significant inconvenience to the consumer.

In either case, where repair or replacement fail the consumer is entitled to further repairs or replacements, or they can claim a price reduction or the right to reject.  The same rule applies if both repair and replacement are impossible or disproportionate from the outset.

Price reduction and the final right to reject

If repair or replacement is not available or is unsuccessful or is not provided within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience to the consumer, then the consumer can claim a price reduction or reject the goods.

Where repair or replacement fail, are not available, or were not provided within a reasonable time and without causing significant inconvenience to the consumer, the consumer chooses whether to keep the goods or return them.  If they keep the goods, then their claim will be for a reduction in price; if they return them, they are rejecting them.

A price reduction must be an appropriate amount, which will depend on all the circumstances of the claim. It can be any amount up to the whole price.

If the consumer rejects the goods, they are entitled to a refund.  This refund may be reduced to take account of any use the consumer has had from the goods.  However, no deduction can be made for the consumer having the goods simply because the trader has delayed in collecting them.  Nor can a deduction be made where goods are rejected within six months of supply, except where the goods are a motor vehicle.

Additional compensation

Whatever remedy the consumer chooses or ends up with, they may also be able to claim compensation for losses that have been incurred.  These losses might include the cost of any property damage caused by the goods, compensation for personal injury and compensation for the additional cost of buying equivalent goods if they are more expensive elsewhere.

The burden of proof

If the consumer chooses repair, replacement, price reduction or the final right to reject, and if the defect is discovered within six months of delivery, it is assumed that the fault was there at the time of delivery unless the trader can prove otherwise, or unless this assumption is inconsistent with the circumstances – for example, obvious signs of misuse.  This rule is often known as the “reverse burden of proof,” as it reverses the normal rule that a person making a claim has to prove each aspect of that claim.

If more than six months have passed, the consumer has to prove that the defect was there at the time of delivery.  They must also prove that the defect was there at the time of delivery if they exercise the short-term right to reject goods.  Some defects do not become apparent until some time after delivery, and in these cases it is enough to prove that there was an underlying or hidden defect at that time.

Sales Conducted in a Customer’s Home (Off Premises Sales)

All cold calling is unacceptable and this includes cold calling by telephone.  Salespersons and or assessors must not visit without a mutually agreed appointment first being made.  The purpose and intent of any visit must be made clear to the customer. 

The customer must be provided with literature describing the products and services available, together with actual price examples, or where exact prices are not possible (for instance in a bespoke product) with price ranges.  This information must be provided before the visit unless this is not feasible for practical reasons (for example if a visit is to be conducted the same day).  Prices, pricing examples, or price explanations should be given on websites, to enable customers with Internet access to understand these ahead of the visit.

There should be no objection to the customer having a relative, friend, or other advisor/carer with them when the salesperson/assessor visits.  In certain circumstances, this should be encouraged (for example if it is known that the customer has poor eyesight or that they struggle with paperwork).

Salespersons must not use high-pressure selling techniques, such as offering inducements to force a quick decision, or knowingly take advantage of vulnerable customers.  (Examples of what might be high-pressure selling tactics are listed above in Pre-Contractual and Point of Sale Information).

Salespersons must comply with a customer’s request that they leave and no assessment or sales visit should normally last longer than three hours, other than in exceptional circumstances (for example, if a health services professional is present and is responsible for leading the assessment).

Distance Sales

When selling over the Internet, via mail order catalogue, or by telephone, information must be provided to the customer before they take the decision to buy, as required by, and set out in the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013.

Situational

Situational vulnerability should always be assessed on a case-by-case basis.  It is important to remember that all consumers can be situationally vulnerable, and vulnerability is dynamic.  Vulnerability may be caused by the personal situation or circumstances of the consumer; the timing and nature of the decision; the consumer’s level of knowledge, skills or ability; and the effectiveness of tools and communications made available to them by businesses to assist in decision-making.

Situational vulnerability can be caused by, for example, cognitive impairment, low income, illness, loneliness or social isolation.  This list is by no means exhaustive.  Some of us may experience vulnerability during difficult periods in our lives, such as when we go through a bereavement, a divorce or a period of ill health.  Vulnerability can also originate from more enduring personal situations, such as a long-term physical or mental disability.

Market context

The second type of vulnerability can be caused by market contexts; for example, when a consumer has to choose between complex offers or alternatives, or make decisions on the basis of imperfect or unclear information.  It can also come about when a consumer hasn’t accessed a market for some time or has never done so.

Market context vulnerability can also be caused by business communications, or the way consumers are expected to contact or communicate with a business.  Sometimes, lack of experience and education around technology can lead to vulnerability.

Market context vulnerability may arise in some of the following situations (as above, this list is not exhaustive):

• Switching gas or electricity providers or switching bank accounts
• Buying an electric car
• Buying a funeral plan
• Investing in cryptocurrency
• Buying a first car or home
• Choosing a care home for an elderly relative

The two types of vulnerability can affect consumers at the same time.

The checklists above and below should help to:

• Document a vulnerability assessment process
• Help staff assess consumer vulnerability in a consistent way
• Record information about vulnerabilities

Use ‘Be REAL’ to identify consumers who may show signs they could be vulnerable.  Once a consumer has shown signs of vulnerability, then steps can be taken to support them.  If signs are there, use the checklist to document what you discussed.

R. Retain

Is the consumer able to retain, remember and repeat in their own words the information you give them?  Do you have to repeat what you have said over and over again?  Do they ask for clarification and ask you to explain the words or terminology being used.

E. Explain

Is the consumer able to properly evaluate and explain the decision they have made?  Are they joining in the discussion or just agreeing with what you are saying?  Are they coherent and fluent in the language being used?

A. Able

Is the consumer able to hear, understand and communicate what they are being told and their situation?  Are they asking questions that aren’t related to what you are saying?  Do they tell you their thoughts and ask questions, and if so, do they make sense?

L. Listen

Is the consumer able to listen, follow and understand the discussion taking place, or are they distracted, confused and not hearing what you have to say?  Do they take an unusually long time to respond to a question?

Always remember:

• Try to understand the impact of vulnerability and how this might affect the consumer experience and outcomes
• Consumer vulnerability is fluid and dynamic; consumers can move in and out of periods of situational vulnerability

Do not directly call consumers “vulnerable” as it is disempowering; it’s the situations they find themselves in that make them vulnerable

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for healthcare? Do you want to drive change and influence the future of the UK’s health and social care systems? The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) is seeking two dynamic and forward-thinking individuals to join our esteemed Board of Directors. 

About Us: The BHTA is the UK’s oldest and largest healthcare association, representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology sectors. Our mission is to champion our members, protect consumers, shape policy, and drive standards. 

Why join us? 

• Impactful leadership: Shape the strategic direction of the BHTA and make a meaningful impact on the healthcare sector. 
• Innovative environment: Collaborate with industry leaders, policy makers and government to drive progress and transformation. 
• Professional growth: Enhance your leadership skills, expand your professional network, and gain recognition as a key influencer in the sector. 
• Advocacy and influence: Play a pivotal role in advocacy efforts, influencing policy and regulations that affect the healthcare market. 

What we’re looking for: 

• Diversity: BHTA Directors are committed to representing over 400 member companies and their 18,500 employees. A diverse Board is therefore important to BHTA, and applications from under-represented groups are encouraged.  
• Strategic leaders: Individuals with a clear vision for the future of healthcare trade and a strategic approach. It is important that you feel able to represent all members and sections of the BHTA.
• Industry experts: Professionals with extensive experience and expertise in healthcare, medical devices, assistive technology, or related fields. Directors would particularly welcome applications from members within the Prosthetics, Orthotics, FAME, Defibrillator and Pressure Care, Seating and Positioning Sections which are currently under-represented on the Board.   
• Innovative thinkers: Creative problem-solvers who can bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. 
• Committed ambassadors: Passionate about ethical business practices and dedicated to improving healthcare standards in the UK. 
• Communications and PR expertise: Applications from individuals with experience in marketing, communications and PR would also be encouraged, an area of where the Board would welcome further expertise.   

Your responsibilities: 

• Provide strategic direction and governance to the BHTA. 
• Participate in board meetings and contribute to high-level decision-making. 
• Support and guide the association’s initiatives, ensuring alignment with our vision, mission and goals. 
• Engage with stakeholders, including members, policymakers, and industry partners. 

How to apply:

View the job description here and the Terms of Reference here

If you are ready to make a difference and lead the future of healthcare trade in the UK, we want to hear from you!  

Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience, expertise, and vision for the BHTA to david.stockdale@bhta.com by Friday 5 July 2024.  

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact David Stockdale, CEO, in the first instance. Applications must come from individuals currently working within a BHTA member organisation.  

Timeline: 

The closing date for applications is Friday 5 July 2024 

Interviews will be held across July and August, with a recommendation being made to the November board meeting and to be approved at the December 2024 AGM. 

It is anticipated that new Directors would start their role in January 2025.    

BHTA Presents… NHS Carbon Reduction Plan and Net Zero Commitment Requirements with Ben Calder-Travis

Watch Ben from NHS England’s Net Zero and Sustainable Procurement Team give an introduction to the NHS Net Zero Supplier Roadmap, a look at the requirements suppliers will need to meet over this decade, and a deep dive into the Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) and Net Zero Commitment (NZC) requirements going live from 1st April 2024.

Recorded: 27 March 2024

BHTA presents… topic: NHS Carbon Reduction Plan and Net Zero Commitment Requirements

Presenter: Ben Calder-Travis, NHS England Net Zero and Sustainable Procurement Team

Synopsis: NHS sustainable procurement

Request the webinar slides…

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About the speaker

Ben joins us from NHS England’s Net Zero and Sustainable Procurement team, which sits within NHS Commercial and focuses on efficiency savings to ensure the NHS uses its resources effectively and maximises value for money for taxpayers.

They also form the supply chain workstream of the wider Greener NHS programme which aims to deliver the world’s first net zero health service and respond to climate change, improving health now and for future generations.

The team has been at the forefront of launching the Evergreen Sustainable Supplier Assessment and the NHS Carbon Reduction Plan and Net Zero Commitment requirements guidance which will be discussed during today’s event.

The team also looks at addressing Modern Slavery in the supply chain and delivering social value through procurements.

An all-new course designed to enable organisations to upskill their frontline staff in recognising, assessing for and prescribing minor aids and adaptations to reduce risk and promote independent living.

Verlingue has provided BHTA members with an exclusive insurance scheme for 25 years. We have worked closely with BHTA to understand their Members’ diverse requirements and designed an Insurance Scheme to provide the protection the Members need.  

Did you know there are additional, free of charge services included as part of the Scheme? 

When you purchase your business insurance under the BHTA Members Scheme, you automatically have access to a range of free additional services.  

One of these free services is Debt Recovery.   

The service provides legal assistance to help you to recover outstanding debt from a customer who is delaying payment or simply refusing to pay.  

It will also extend to provide legal representation should a case go to court. 

So, how do you access this free service? 

A simple call to a dedicated helpline will put you through to Markel Law – the Scheme’s in-house solicitors – who will undertake and review the case.  The solicitors give you advice on how to secure payment and, if required, combat any counterclaims.  

For more information on the BHTA Insurance Scheme… 

This service is available exclusively as part of the BHTA Members Insurance Scheme, so we would encourage you to contact our Scheme specialist – Stephen Aldridge – if you would like further information on how the Scheme could assist your business.  

Stephen can be contacted on 07557 264091 or by email on Stephen.Aldridge@verlingue.co.uk. 

The BHTA is delighted to be working in partnership with TACT (Trusted Assessing and Care Training) to launch a brand-new course designed for retailers of independent living equipment.

The Trusted Assessors: Assessing in the Retail Environment course is designed to accredit retailer members as Trusted Assessors.

This new training-based programme announced on February 6^th at the Retailer Day enables customer-facing staff to learn the skills involved in assessing for suitable home adaptations equipment. The course was developed by TACT in consultation with the BHTA and its members and it is accredited by OCN London.

Retailers of equipment for independent living are experts in the product solutions they range, and this enables them to check suitability and tailor products to individual people’s needs. Many retailers are relied on in their local areas to visit people at home and demonstrate equipment to help people live independently. The Trusted Assessor model is based on occupational therapy models of practice and learning this approach enables an Assessor to evaluate the person and their environment in a systematic way to identify the best solution. Assessors are taught when to refer a case to an OT (Occupational Therapist) and this ensures best use of staff and resources whilst speeding up access to much-needed equipment.

‘We’re delighted to be working with the BHTA to provide this Trusted Assessor course to their members. It’s a splendid example of how staff already visiting older and disabled people at home can be taught to carry out simple assessments for home adaptations with a best practice approach based on the Competency Framework. Expanding the range of Assessors working in the UK by harnessing the skills of this specialist retail sector is an innovative way of speeding up access to much-needed equipment,’ says Clare Barber, Director of TACT and an OT specialising in this field.

‘This programme underlines the BHTA’s commitment to quality and raising standards in the sector,’ says David Stockdale, Chief Executive at BHTA ‘The Trusted Assessor model is known and in widespread practice in health, social care, and housing services across the UK. This initiative enables our retail members to be aligned with a best practice approach in assessing for equipment that in turn means they can be integrated into local pathways. Older and disabled people can expect to gain faster access to important solutions for their independence and be confident in the impartial advice provided.’

Courses can be commissioned directly from TACT or learners can book onto an open course – the first open course will run on June 4^th in Warwick at Wenman Healthcare. To book onto the course or find out more please email TACT on info@trustedassessing.com or visit their website and complete a web enquiry https://trustedassessing.com/

EHCP funding with Guv Kaur

Watch Guv Kaur talk through EHCPs, with a specific focus on the provision of children’s equipment.

Recorded: 29 November 2023

BHTA presents… topic: Getting to grips with Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) funding

Presenter: Guv Kaur, Director at Taylor Price

Synopsis: Understanding funding for EHCP’s

Request the webinar slides…

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Request the webinar slides by contacting marketing@bhta.com

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Watch the webinar

About the speaker

Guv Kaur, Director & Solicitor at Taylor Price

Guv is a Specialist Solicitor in the area of Public Law, and in particular, Special Educational Needs.

She is one of the few solicitors in this field with expertise in the differing jurisdictions of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

She has over 15 years experience in this niche area and represents children, young adults and their families in securing access to state funded provision including specialist school and college placements.

She regularly challenges EHCPs in the SEND Tribunal forum. Her expertise has been recognised in the UK Courts more widely, where she now acts as expert witness on SEND Law, EHCPs and related public law issues.

Guv works with Local Authorities and provides advice on a range of SEND/ EHCP and related issues. She is also trustee of a national children’s visual impairment charity.

[London, 20 December 2023] A coalition of leading first aid and cardiovascular charities, including the British Heart Foundation, St John Ambulance and the British Red Cross, have pledged support for the British Healthcare Trades Association campaign to scrap the VAT on Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), a move which would increase affordability and save lives.  

This comes as over 100 MPs and Peers wrote to the Prime Minister and Chancellor last month urging the Government to consider scrapping the defibrillator tax ahead of the Autumn Statement.  

The Heart Restart Tax initiative is led by the BHTA and brings together community groups, charities, businesses and MPs to campaign for change.  

Defibrillators are used to restart a person’s heart in the event of sudden cardiac arrest and early treatment can increase survival rates to as high as 70% if defibrillation is given within three to five minutes of collapse. However, the median distance to an AED from the centre of any given UK postcode is over 700m – an average 19-minute walking distance there and back.  

Small businesses, community groups, charities and private users must pay added tax on top of all defibrillator purchases – bringing costs up by £200-500 per defibrillator. The campaign is urging the Government to reconsider the tax to ensure that more defibrillators can be installed across the country.  

Currently, local authorities, the NHS, and specific first aid charities are exempt from VAT on defibrillators, meaning that the tax only hits small businesses and charities, community groups, grassroots sports clubs and private owners. 

In January, the Irish Government removed the VAT on defibrillators in Ireland in a bid to save lives and reduce pressure on healthcare services.   

David Stockdale, Chief Executive of the British Healthcare Trades Association, said: 

“We know that defibrillators save lives, but they are far too few and far between on our streets. This counterintuitive Heart Restart Tax is a tax on saving lives and we’re really pleased to have the support of leading first aid and cardiovascular charities to reinforce that scrapping the VAT on defibrillators is a common-sense solution to a real problem for private users, community groups and grassroots sports clubs.” 

Lynn Thomas, Medical Director at St John Ambulance, said: 

“In a cardiac arrest, every second counts. Using a defibrillator is crucial in those first moments and when used quickly can more the double the chances of survival. 

At St John Ambulance, we know Community First Aid Saves Lives, that’s why we welcome this campaign to empower our communities by strengthening public access to first aid training and equipment that will improve health outcomes and help save lives.”  

Susannah Kerr, Head of Public Affairs at the British Heart Foundation said: 

“The UK still has very poor survival rates for out of hospital cardiac arrests, and that is why it is vital that lifesaving defibs are as available and affordable as possible for communities across the country.  

We’re proud to support this campaign so that community groups, businesses and charities across the UK can ensure more defibs are where they need to be in the ultimate medical emergency.”  

Patrick Gollop, Director of Red Cross Training, said: 

“A sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, at any time, and survival rates are significantly greater by using chest compressions and a defibrillator quickly. This means much more should be done to increase the numbers of defibrillators across the country and particularly in community spaces; removing VAT on all defibrillator purchases would help to increase affordability and access and save lives in turn.”  

ENDS. 

Notes to editors: 

• The Heart Restart Tax campaign is run by the British Healthcare Trades Association. For more information, please see: www.hearttax.co.uk & www.bhta.com  
• 19-year-old Jack Hurley, a coaching student and keen footballer who was saved by a defibrillator when he suffered a cardiac arrest during a football match, has launched a petition on behalf of the campaign: www.change.org/hearttax  
• A person in the UK has just an 8% chance of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. 
• Early defibrillation can increase survival rates to as high as 70% if defibrillation is given within three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest. 
• On average an AED is 726m away from the centre of any given postcode, which amounts to a 19-minute walk there and back. 
• Currently, only defibrillators purchased by or donated to specific charities, local authorities and the NHS are exempt from VAT – increasing the cost of purchase for community groups, small businesses and other organisations by up to £500. Removing the VAT would increase defibrillator affordability by as much as £500 and widen access in public spaces.  
• VAT relief is already granted to goods and services provided by health professionals which HMT deems ‘aimed at protecting, restoring and maintaining the health of the individual’. VAT exemptions are also already available for a number of medical devices for disabled people and older people for personal use, including heart pacemakers, artificial respirators, mobility scooters and sanitary devices.  
• The Irish Government removed the VAT on defibrillators in January 2023 and the Heart Restart Tax campaign is calling for the UK to follow. 

Naidex, the ultimate event for the disability community, is held at the NEC, Birmingham on 20-21 March 2024.

Date and time:
20 March 2024 from 9am-5.30pm
21 March 2024 from 9am-4.30pm

Location:
NEC
Marston Green Birmingham
B40 1NT

Event organiser:
ROAR B2B

Unlocking the Power of Inclusion: Naidex 2024

Registration for Naidex 2024, the National Accessibility, Inclusion & Disability Expo, is now open. Taking place on the 20 and 21 of March 2024 at the NEC Birmingham, this transformative event promises to be a celebration of diversity, innovation, and empowerment.

What to Expect at Naidex 2024?

Naidex covers all aspects of the disability journey, making it a truly holistic event. From family dynamics to education, employment opportunities to leisure and lifestyle choices, the event covers a broad range of topics. Visitors can look forward to:

Cutting-Edge Accessibility Solutions: Explore the latest advancements in assistive technology and products designed to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Inspiring Inclusive Practices: Gain insights from industry pioneers, thought leaders and famous faces as they share their expertise on creating inclusive environments. Engage in hands-on sessions that provide practical tools and strategies for fostering inclusion and enhancing independence in various settings.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse community of professionals, businesses, and organizations committed to making a positive impact on accessibility and inclusion. Challenge preconceptions and broaden perspectives on disability, fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance.

Business without Barriers: A dedicated event running alongside Naidex connecting disabled jobseekers to inclusive employers.

Visitors will be able to explore the latest products and services from over 150 experienced suppliers who are dedicated to making life better for those with disabilities. Expect to find innovative solutions, assistive technologies, and products that enhance independence and quality of life.

Naidex for Professionals

For those working within healthcare, there is also the opportunity to enhance your professional development with the CPD accredited seminar agenda. Running alongside the Neuro Convention, the event brings together the industry’s top educators and thought-leaders for you to meet and learn from.

If you are a trade professional supplying to the healthcare, mobility, and independent living community, feel free to explore and discover the latest technology and innovations in the marketplace, find new suppliers in the exhibition hall, plus talk directly to key manufacturers, retailers and distributors serving the sector in the networking areas and cafes.

To book your free tickets to attend Naidex 2024, click here.

The fourth year of the national Care Sector Supplier Awards took place in London this month, with the judges once again recognising the best providers of products and services to the care sector in the UK.

The Category Winners were announced at a lunch and ceremony on November 17 at the 5-star Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington, during an afternoon which proved to be a wonderful opportunity to get together some of the UK’s best suppliers to the care sector.

Twenty-eight companies made the shortlist for 2023, reflecting the increase in the number of entries and the growth in the number of companies entering this year.

The BHTA is pleased to have been an Association Partner to the Awards this year, where there was such a high standard of entry.

After carefully weighing up evidence of innovation, enterprise and performance across each year’s entries, the expert panel was able to highlight companies such as FaultFixers, Haigh Engineering and Beaucare Medical as top performers in their field.

Other examples of excellence include the Best for Therapies category being won by CareHomeLife, Best for Marketing, Creative and Information Services being scooped by PLMR Group, and the Award for Best for Personal Care going to Ontex.

A full list of the 2023 Results can be found here, and more detail on each winning entry is in the digital Winners Booklet, along with a photo gallery of the lunch and Awards Ceremony.

If the success of these companies has prompted you to consider putting your company forward for an Award, all of the details regarding entry and the relevant fees can be found on the Awards website. Entries open March 1, 2024.

The Care Sector Supplier Awards are now in their fourth year and are organised by the same team that runs the successful Care Home Awards, Home Care Awards and the new Retirement Living Awards. Their experience, built up over seven years, prompted the creation of the Care Sector Supplier Awards, purely aimed at recognising and rewarding suppliers of products and services to the care sector in the UK.

Verlingue UK is delighted to announce the renewal of the BHTA Insurance Scheme.

After a comprehensive review of the insurance market to ensure BHTA members continue to be provided with the very best insurance solutions, Verlingue is delighted to inform you that the scheme has been renewed with Markel. The Scheme provides competitive premium rates available in the market, along with access to exclusive and additional cover.

Verlingue has also negotiated enhanced Cyber Insurance cover, with the standard base cyber limit increasing from £25,000 to £50,000, and Cyber Risk Management being part of the insurance package, adding an extra layer of security for your business. It’s not just coverage; it’s a commitment to staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of cyber risks and risk management!

Lastly, as a member of the Scheme, you will still have exclusive access to the additional services that Verlingue has successfully arranged. Further details of these services and enquiries regarding the Scheme can be requested by contacting Steve Aldridge by email at Stephen.Aldridge@verlingue.co.uk

On 21 November 2023, the British Healthcare Trades Association held a parliamentary reception in the Churchill Room, at the House of Commons. The event marked the launch of the BHTA 2023 Manifesto, calling on the government to work with industry to improve health and social care across the UK.

The event brought together MPs and Peers, as well as BHTA members and industry representatives, to discuss UK healthcare, current barriers and ways these can be overcome.  

In the 2023 Manifesto, BHTA calls for collaboration among stakeholders, policymakers, healthcare professionals and industry to improve healthcare in the UK.

The manifesto centers on 5 key asks that BHTA believes require government attention:

Release NHS Capacity – Industry Partnership for Effective H&SC Delivery
Government must establish and fund a National Stakeholder Forum to identify policies, practices, and processes that drive effective H&SC delivery at scale.

Regulate for Safe, Effective UK Medical Devices
Government must deliver a world-leading medical device regime; this can only be achieved via opensource regulation – engaging meaningfully with stakeholders to develop UK laws, regulations, and market-access routes.

Rethink Innovation Adoption & Procurement
For Innovation Adoption, we call on Government to create – in partnership with industry – a roadmap, timeline, and toolkit to boost H&SC innovation adoption.

For Procurement, Government must increase investment in current NHSE/industry partnership – led by NHSE Central Commercial Function (NHS CCF) – to create a suite of mutually-agreed policies, practices, and toolkits based on ValueBased Procurement principles.

Regularise Sustainability & Social Value
Government must empower NHSE CCF – with budget, resource, and authority – to drive consistency in sustainability and social value across departments and commissioning bodies.

Reduce Export Barriers
In close partnership with industry, Government should ensure clear, consistent application of the 2025 UK Border Strategy, UK Export Strategy, and UK Single-Trade Window.

To read the full manifesto click here, to read the 5 Rs click here.   

To demonstrate the medical products that are being affected by current regulations, BHTA members brought several products to showcase to MPs. These included (left to right below) furniture raisers from Gordon Ellis & Co, the SEM Scanner from Arjo, the UroShield Catheter from Peak Medical and an AED cabinet and defibrillator from Wel Medical.   

The afternoon event was opened by a welcome from Mark Eastwood MP, who sponsored the reception. Eastwood previously worked for a company providing medical furniture and equipment to the NHS, and therefore has a keen interest in the work members of the BHTA do.

David Stockdale, BHTA CEO, extended the welcome and introduced each of the key speakers to the podium.  

The first speaker of the day was Preet Gill M.P., Shadow Minister for Primary Care and Public Health. Gill affirmed that the Labour party is committed to developing a comprehensive innovation and adoption strategy for the NHS. She said this can only be achieved by government working with industry, patients, and ICSs.

William Lee, Head of Policy at BHTA, was the next speaker. Lee officially launched the 2023 Manifesto to the room, taking the attendees through the five asks of government above. He labelled these the “5 R’s” and gave a summary and context as to why BHTA had focussed on these asks. He encouraged the room to take a printed copy, analyse and discuss.

The third speaker of the day was Preeya Bailie, Director of Procurement Transformation and Commercial Delivery at NHS England. Bailie covered how the NHS plans to transform over the next year, allowing easier access for industry and promoting adoption of innovation. She spoke about “one door access”, with one clear, well-defined route into the NHS Procurement process.

And finally, Lord Nick Markham CBE gave the final address of the day, where he looked forward to the future of UK health and social care, and at how government and industry can work together to improve healthcare for all. He spoke about removing barriers to innovation and undergoing a current project to digitalise NHS patient health records, which is already at 86%.  

David Stockdale once again thanked the room and closed the event.

The day in pictures

The parliamentary reception and manifesto launch took place in the Churchill Room at the House of Commons on 21 November 2023.

See below for an overview of the day in pictures.

[London, 25 October 2023] – The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) Independent Living Section is pleased to announce a collaboration with the NHS Supply Chain to establish a standardised system for describing the height and width of products, sizing terms, and patient measurement procedures for walking aids. This initiative aims to streamline the process of selecting the right walking aid products for both patients and healthcare professionals.

The BHTA Independent Living Section, in a project led by NHS Supply Chain, has developed a set of terms to describe the height and width of walking aid products. This standardisation will eliminate confusion and ambiguity in product descriptions, ensuring clarity for both suppliers and healthcare providers.

The collaboration has defined the sizing measurements associated with each term. Terms such as narrow or standard width, as well as small, medium, large, and extra-large heights, are now uniformly defined, making it easier for healthcare professionals to accurately assess patient needs and recommend the most suitable walking aids.

These developments have been integrated into the NHS Supply Chain catalogue. As a result, all walking aid products within the catalogue now utilise the new standard description terms and sizing guides. This significant improvement simplifies the process of ordering the correct products, reducing the risk of errors and improving patient care.

Furthermore, the BHTA Independent Living Section and the NHS Supply Chain are extending an invitation to all suppliers and distributors to join this important initiative. By implementing the agreed-upon approach, suppliers and distributors can contribute to a more efficient and standardised process across the industry.

David Stockdale, CEO of BHTA, said “BHTA and our Independent Living Section are proud to have worked on this project with NHS Supply Chain.

We are excited about the positive impact that this collaboration will have on the healthcare industry. Standardising the terminology and sizing measurements for walking aids will greatly improve the ordering process, enhance patient care, and streamline operations for healthcare professionals and suppliers alike. Every patient should receive the right walking aid that is tailored to their specific needs. This new approach should simplify that process.”

Simon Ball, Clinical Engagement and Implementation Manager and Advanced Practice Physiotherapist, said: “It’s been fantastic working with members of the BHTA, suppliers and key stakeholders from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy to agree on a standard way to measure patients for their walking aids, as well as agreeing on common terminology to be used across the walking aid product ranges when describing heights and widths of products.  

“It will benefit patient safety, with healthcare professionals being advised to measure walking aids in the same way. It also simplifies the decisions on product selection, ensuring patients receive the right aid first time therefore reducing waste and improving patient experience.”

The new, standardised terms and measurements can be viewed on the BHTA website, here: https://www.bhta.com/get-wise-to-measuring-a-walking-aid/

ENDS***

Notes for editors

About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure people have access to the right product and service, at the right time, at the right value. All BHTA members are committed to the association’s Code of Practice, requiring companies to offer a level of service above and beyond the legal requirements. The BHTA collaborates with members, policymakers, and stakeholders to shape a healthier future for all.  

About NHS Supply Chain: NHS Supply Chain is part of the NHS family and manages the sourcing, delivery and supply of healthcare products, services and food for NHS trusts and healthcare organisations across England and Wales.

We manage more than 8 million orders per year across more than 129,000 order points and over 16,000 locations. We deliver over 35 million lines of picked goods to the NHS annually and our systems consolidate orders from over 1100 suppliers. This enables us to bring value to our NHS partners, helping them save time and money in removing duplication of overlapping contracts.

NHS Supply Chain aims to leverage the collective buying power of the NHS to drive savings and provide a standardised range of clinically assured, quality products at the best value.

NHS Supply Chain is committed to enabling the NHS to deliver safe and excellent patient care.

Yesterday, 17 October 2023, BHTA held a parliamentary event in Portcullis House, London, to call on the UK government to scrap the tax levied on defibrillators in order to widen community access to these lifesaving medical devices.

The event was hosted by Caroline Dinenage, Conservative MP for Gosport. 

Removing VAT from the sale of AEDs would make them significantly more affordable and bring costs down by up to £500. If AEDs are more affordable, small businesses and community groups will be more likely to be able to purchase them, increasing access and saving lives.

The London event saw BHTA members urging MPs and Peers to join the campaign to scrap the tax.

“It has been my pleasure to lend my support to such an important campaign, and it is encouraging to see so many of my colleagues from across the political divide provide a unified voice on this matter. In light of such poor survival rates in this country, it is clear that the Government must act for more defibrillators to be accessible in key locations.” 

Caroline Dinenage, Conservative MP for Gosport.

The Scrap the Heart Restart Tax campaign, a British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) initiative, emphasises that defibrillators are invaluable lifesaving medical devices and reducing financial barriers would encourage a broader availability within communities. The event offered a platform for open discussions, data sharing, and an exchange of ideas on how the government and the healthcare industry can collaborate to make defibrillators more affordable and accessible.

The event was also attended by 19-year-old Jack Hurley, who shared his experience of cardiac arrest whilst playing football, and how a defibrillator was instrumental in saving his life. Jack and his family are joining the BHTA in calling on the government to act now to protect communities.

“Without quick thinking from those around me and the crucial presence of a defibrillator within easy reach when I collapsed, I would likely not be here today. I was shocked to find out that the vast majority do not survive cardiac arrests happening outside of hospital. The football club’s decision to install a defibrillator in their grounds saved my life, and it seems only logical to me that more clubs and organisations should be given as much incentive as possible to make the same investment.” 

Jack Hurley, coaching student and cardiac arrest survivor

The Irish government recently axed the tax in Ireland, and BHTA is calling on the UK government to do the same.

The event was attended by members of Parliament who showed strong support for the cause, including MPs Caroline Dinenage, Jack Brereton, Sir George Howarth, Priti Patel, Rachael Maskell, Derek Thomas, Anna Firth, Tobias Ellwood and many more.

“Through the Heart Restart Tax campaign, we are showing the Government a simple action to act on our shockingly poor survival rates from cardiac arrests occurring outside of hospitals in this country. Our members specialised in defibrillator manufacturing have been key to improving the availability of these lifesaving devices across the country, yet more needs to be done to make these expensive pieces of kit accessible to the small businesses and organisations that cannot afford them”. 

David Stockdale, CEO of the British Healthcare Trades Association

The BHTA’s campaign to eliminate VAT on defibrillators represents a significant step forward in addressing a critical public health issue. The association is optimistic that the government will consider their request, creating a safer community for all.

Sustainability with Team Consulting

Watch Sarah Mardle address the challenges and benefits of implementing a sustainable agenda in your business.

Recorded: 20 September 2023

BHTA presents… topic: How to become a sustainable business

Presenter: Sarah Mardle, Operations Director at Team Consulting.

Synopsis: Addressing the challenges and benefits of implementing a sustainable agenda.

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About the speaker

Sarah is a member of the Team Consulting senior leadership team and is accountable for the leadership, strategic development and operational management of several teams. She is tasked with ensuring her teams provide effective, compliant, safe and inspiring work environments which underpins the efficient delivery of their medical device development consulting services.

Having a passion for operational excellence and efficiency, Sarah enjoys working to further develop systems, processes and infrastructure.

Engaging with the NHS

Watch Robert Hull address how companies developing MedTech for use in the NHS can work with the NHS and increase the chance of adoption.

Recorded: 23 August 2023

BHTA presents… topic: Engaging with the NHS

Presenter: Robert Hull, Senior Consultant at Mtech Access.

Synopsis: How companies developing MedTech for use in the NHS can work with the NHS and increase the chance of adoption.

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About the speaker

Robert has considerable experience in developing biotech and healthcare technologies across industry, academia and the NHS. Robert has worked with companies of all sizes from SMEs to multi-nationals to create innovative technologies which meet real world needs.

Previously, Robert has focused on helping NHS organisations in meeting their needs through identification and implementation of technologies to meet these challenges. Robert has also supported numerous companies in developing their innovations for use by health and care systems throughout their development journey, from understanding their market and building credible valuable propositions through to securing funding, and the clinical evidence required for adoption by the NHS.

Robert has a PhD in Microbiology from the University of Southampton.