First Aid Equipment and consumables

This procurement relates to the provision of first aid consumables and equipment required across Sussex Police to support both operational policing activities and training requirements. The requirement is demand-led, with volumes and ordering patterns varying in line with operational needs and organisational demand.

The contract value stated is based on historical expenditure over the previous 12 months and is intended as an estimate only. Goods will be ordered on an as-required basis through the issuance of purchase orders, with deliveries made to Authority locations as specified at the time of ordering. Payment will be made in accordance with the Authority's standard 30-day payment terms following receipt of a valid invoice.

The Authority's previous route to market was through a framework arrangement established by the Metropolitan Police Service. Following the decision not to extend or replace this framework, and in order to ensure continuity of supply of critical first aid consumables and equipment, the Authority intends to undertake a direct award to Aero Healthcare, the incumbent supplier, for a period of 12 months.

This approach has been adopted as a temporary and proportionate measure to maintain uninterrupted access to essential first aid products while the Authority considers its longer-term procurement strategy. During this period, BlueLight Commercial is undertaking the establishment of a new national framework for first aid consumables and equipment, which is anticipated to be available during 2027. The Authority intends to review and, where appropriate, utilise this framework through an approved procurement route upon its availability.

The direct award provides business continuity, mitigates the operational risks associated with any gap in provision, and allows sufficient time for the new national framework to be established and made available, ensuring that any future procurement is conducted through a suitable and compliant route to market.