NHSPS generates £53 million in cost efficiencies during pandemic

NHS Property Services (NHSPS)’s annual report, published on 13 December 2021, has revealed that it generated £53 million in cost efficiencies for the health service during the first year of the pandemic.

NHSPS, which owns and manages 10 per cent of the NHS estate, exceeded its initial cost efficiencies target by £20 million. These savings helped to mitigate inflationary pressures on the NHS, enabling NHSPS to prioritise the pandemic response and keep its charges flat.

There was an additional twenty per cent increase on capital investment, which saw improvements to NHS sites, such as GP surgeries and hospitals across England.

To support the NHS Covid-19 response, NHSPS refurbished spaces to create capacity for over 1,500 beds across England between April 2020 and April 2021. NHSPS also worked with customers and local health systems to set up 250 vaccination sites.

In total, NHSPS delivered 110 transformational estate projects, as part of its ‘Healthy Place’ scheme. This will benefit over two million patients and provide 100,000 sqm of upgraded space for the NHS.

A new social prescribing programme was also launched, creating 21 more spaces, and contributes towards the goal established in the NHS Long Term Plan to refer at least 90,000 people to these services by 2023/2024.

Over the twelve-month period, NHSPS has prioritised reducing the carbon footprint of the health estate, in line with the NHS’ goal to become net zero by 2040. Initiatives have included switching the building portfolio to 100 per cent renewable energy, upgrading to LED lighting and installing smart meters. This has saved £10.6 million and 8,600 tonnes of carbon.

Martin Steele, Chief Executive Office for NHSPS, said: “2020 was a challenging year for everyone, both within and outside of our organisation but it has been incredible to lead an organisation that has been so committed to supporting the NHS during this difficult time.

“Through collaborating with Integrated Care Systems and local health authorities we have adapted existing buildings to support the vaccine rollout and explored how community-based health and wellbeing initiatives can be delivered locally. We have learnt important lessons that will help us to improve the health estate and ensure it is fit for patients both now and in the future. I look forward to continuing to work closely with our customers to deliver local solutions and the best value possible for the NHS at both a local and national level.”