Revamping NHS Commissioning Rules: What You Need to Know

In a bid to streamline healthcare services, the UK government has introduced a new set of regulations aimed at reshaping the responsibilities within NHS commissioning. The National Health Service Commissioning Board and Clinical Commissioning Groups (Responsibilities and Standing Rules) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, set to take effect from April 1, 2025, bring pivotal changes in two significant areas: healthcare services for Secure Training Centres (STCs) and NHS-funded Nursing Care (FNC) rates.

Key Changes in the Regulations:

1. Healthcare Services in STCs:

   • Transfer of Responsibility: As of April 2025, NHS England (NHSE) will take over the responsibility for commissioning healthcare services at Oakhill Secure Training Centre, the only remaining STC not under NHS oversight, as well as any future STCs. This move aligns Oakhill with the broader Children and Young People Secure Estate (CYPSE), ensuring uniform access to healthcare services for young people in secure settings.
   • Objective: The transition aims to provide children at STCs with healthcare services that are on par with those available to their peers in the community, addressing their high levels of need.

2. Revised NHS-Funded Nursing Care Rates:

   • Increased Funding: The regulations introduce a 7.7% increase in NHS-funded Nursing Care rates for the 2025/26 financial year. The standard weekly rate will rise to £254.06, while the higher rate will increase to £349.50. This adjustment reflects wage inflation and growing care costs, ensuring that care homes can effectively support eligible residents with nursing needs.

Why These Changes Matter:

• Consistency in Healthcare: By bringing STC healthcare commissioning in line with the rest of the secure estate, the regulations promote consistency and quality in healthcare delivery for detained youth.
• Support for Care Homes: The adjustment in FNC rates helps care homes manage rising costs, ensuring they can continue to provide essential nursing care to residents who require it.

Consultation and Impact:

While no public consultation was conducted due to the specific nature of these provisions, experts from NHSE and His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service Youth Custody Service (HMPPS YCS) were consulted. The impact on businesses and voluntary bodies is expected to be minimal, as these changes primarily affect the operational dynamics within NHS and care settings.

Monitoring and Future Adjustments:

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHSE will continue to monitor the implementation of these policies, with an annual review of FNC rates to ensure they remain appropriate.

This legislative update marks a significant step towards refining the NHS's approach to healthcare commissioning and funding, ensuring that vulnerable groups receive high-quality, equitable care.