NHS Procurement Fights Against Slavery

A consultation has revealed significant risks of modern slavery in NHS supply chains, prompting the government to propose new measures aimed at eradicating exploitation and ensuring ethical procurement practices

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on GOV.uk

A public consultation in November 2024 revealed alarming findings: over 21% of NHS suppliers are at high risk of involving modern slavery in their supply chains. Products such as surgical instruments, gloves, gowns, uniforms and face masks were identified as the top five high-risk categories, underscoring the urgent need for action.

In response, the government has proposed new measures aimed at combating modern slavery in NHS supply chains. These measures would legally require public bodies procuring goods and services for the NHS to identify and mitigate the risks of modern slavery. Organisations must work closely with suppliers to uncover risks and implement robust solutions to address them. Public bodies failing to comply could face legal consequences, ensuring that combating modern slavery becomes a priority rather than an option.

Why Modern Slavery is a Serious Concern

Modern slavery is a grave violation of human rights that traps individuals in exploitative conditions, depriving them of freedom, dignity and fair wages. Victims are often coerced into labour through threats, abuse, or economic dependency, with little to no recourse for escape.

The NHS, as one of the world’s largest employers and healthcare providers, has a moral and ethical responsibility to ensure its procurement practices do not support such exploitation. Failure to address these risks not only perpetuates harm to vulnerable individuals but also undermines public trust in the healthcare system.

Jacqui Rock, chief commercial officer at NHS England, emphasised the importance of tackling modern slavery, stating: “Modern slavery is insidious and needs to be eradicated from the NHS supply chain. While our procurement follows the government’s standard selection questionnaire, which addresses modern slavery risk, there is much more to do. We have a responsibility to ensure a zero-tolerance policy to modern slavery – and the more stakeholders that respond to this consultation will help strengthen these measures and help us wipe out this crime in the NHS supply chain.”

Have Your Input

The government is seeking input on its proposals from public bodies, suppliers, trade associations, interest groups, patients and the wider public by 13 February 2025. This consultation offers a vital opportunity for practice managers and other stakeholders to help shape robust measures to combat modern slavery. By contributing, you can play a key role in ensuring the NHS leads the way in ethical practices, protecting human rights while maintaining its commitment to delivering exceptional care.