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Orthotic suppliers invited to tender for NHS framework agreement

Orthotic suppliers invited to tender for NHS framework agreement

Orthotic suppliers are invited to submit bids for a new NHS framework agreement covering the supply of orthotic products across multiple trusts in Birmingham. The framework, led by Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust and conducted by HealthTrust Europe, aims to ensure access to high-quality, made-to-measure and off-the-shelf orthotic devices for patients across participating organisations.

BHTA encourages members supplying orthotic products, footwear, spinal supports, or associated devices to review the notice and assess potential participation in this framework.

The procurement will establish a multi-lot framework valued at approximately £15 million (excluding VAT). The agreement is expected to run from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028, with options to extend for up to two additional 12-month periods.

About the framework

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust has issued this tender in collaboration with the BSOL Procurement Collaborative, which is hosted by University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust. Participating organisations include:

  • Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
  • Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
  • Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
  • Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

The framework seeks to provide a comprehensive range of orthotic products supporting NHS orthotic services in Birmingham. It encompasses both bespoke manufacturing and ready-made product supply, along with repair and adaptation services.

The agreement allows for both direct awards and mini competitions depending on purchasing requirements. There is no limit on the number of suppliers that may be appointed to the framework.

Scope and lots

The framework is divided into 14 lots, each covering a different category of orthotic products and related equipment:

  • Lot 1: Bespoke footwear and insoles – made-to-measure orthotic footwear and insoles manufactured to individual patient casts or measurements, including repair and alteration services.
  • Lot 2: Modular footwear and insoles – modular orthotic footwear and insoles, including associated repairs and adaptations.
  • Lot 3a: Made-to-measure lower limb (plastic) – custom-made lower limb orthoses manufactured from plastic materials such as polypropylene or polyethylene.
  • Lot 3b: Made-to-measure lower limb (carbon fibre) – lightweight, high-strength orthoses made from carbon fibre or composite materials for active users.
  • Lot 4a: Made-to-measure spinal (rigid) – rigid spinal orthoses including TLSOs, LSOs, and cervical-thoracic braces made from thermoplastic or composite rigid shells.
  • Lot 4b: Made-to-measure spinal (fabric) – soft or semi-rigid spinal orthoses such as corsets, belts, and semi-rigid braces.
  • Lot 4c: Helmets – orthotic helmets designed to correct cranial deformities or support post-operative cranial remodelling.
  • Lot 5: Lycra – custom-made and off-the-shelf Lycra orthoses including full-body suits, segmental garments, and custom-fitted orthoses.
  • Lot 6: Off-the-shelf lower limb (foot and foot/ankle) – pre-fabricated orthoses for foot and ankle conditions including AFOs, foot drop splints, and ankle stabilisers.
  • Lot 7: Off-the-shelf lower limb (hip, leg, knee) – orthoses for hip, leg, and knee support including knee braces, hip abduction orthoses, and post-operative supports.
  • Lot 8: Off-the-shelf upper limb (shoulder to wrist) – upper limb orthoses including shoulder immobilisers, elbow braces, and wrist splints.
  • Lot 9: Off-the-shelf upper limb (head, neck, and trunk) – pre-fabricated orthoses such as cervical collars, spinal supports, and cranial helmets.
  • Lot 10: Insoles – off-the-shelf and bespoke insoles to support foot health, improve gait, and alleviate pressure-related conditions.
  • Lot 11: Associated orthotic equipment – devices designed to support, align, or improve the function of the musculoskeletal system.

The framework encourages participation from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and suppliers may bid for one or multiple lots.

Award and evaluation criteria

Tenders will be evaluated based on a combination of price and quality, with the following weightings:

  • Price: 35 percent
  • Service: 25 percent
  • Quality: 20 percent
  • Social value: 20 percent

Successful suppliers will be expected to demonstrate robust quality standards, reliable service provision, and a clear commitment to delivering social value in line with NHS procurement priorities.

Submission details

All submissions must be made electronically through the portal in English. Suppliers are encouraged to read the full details of the procurement on the HealthTrust Europe Bravo Solutions Portal.

For enquiries, contact:

HealthTrust Europe
Email: customercare@htepg.com
Telephone: 0845 887 5000