Ongoing procurement challenges have left almost 100 NHS employees facing prolonged uncertainty, highlighting the significant workforce impact that can result when procurement processes fail to deliver timely outcomes.

Nearly 100 staff working within Lancashire and Cumbria’s Liaison and Diversion and RECONNECT services have reportedly spent more than two years in a state of uncertainty due to a troubled NHS England procurement exercise. The £32 million contract, which supports vulnerable people entering the criminal justice system, has now undergone multiple procurement attempts without a successful long-term resolution.

The procurement process began in April 2024 when NHS England’s North West regional team selected Practice Plus Group to take over delivery of the service from Lancashire and South Cumria NHS Foundation Trust (LSCFT). However, the decision was challenged through the Independent Patient Choice and Procurement Panel, which found that procurement rules had been breached and ordered the process to be rerun.

According to the panel’s findings, NHS England failed to meet its obligation to act fairly and provided misleading explanations regarding the trust’s unsuccessful bid. The procurement was subsequently restarted but was later abandoned, with NHS England confirming plans to launch a third procurement exercise.

Workforce Impact

The prolonged uncertainty has had a direct impact on employees working within the service. The service employs 91 staff members and, following the first failed procurement process, operations were returned to LSCFT under an emergency contract arrangement.

Reports indicate that some employees have already left the service due to concerns about its future. Trade union representatives have criticised the extended period of uncertainty, describing it as unacceptable for staff whose roles and careers may be affected by ongoing procurement decisions.

Despite the procurement challenges, NHS England has stated that measures were put in place to ensure there was no disruption to patient care. Emergency contract arrangements were implemented to maintain service continuity whilst procurement matters were addressed. nd RECONNECT services play an important role in identifying and supporting vulnerable individuals who come into contact with the criminal justice system, helping to ensure they receive appropriate interventions and support.

Lessons for Public Sector Procurement

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of robust, transparent and compliant procurement processes within the public sector. When procurement activity is delayed or challenged, the consequences extend beyond contractual arrangements and can affect workforce stability, organisational confidence and service delivery.

For NHS organisations and public bodies, effective procurement governance remains essential in delivering value, maintaining fairness and ensuring continuity for both staff and service users.

Source: HSJ Intelligence, “Nearly 100 staff left ‘in limbo by shitshow procurement'” (30 July 2026).