Softcat has spoken of its inclusion on a new two-year cybersecurity framework, which is designed to simplify cyber security procurement for the UK public sector.
The national framework was created by NHS Shared Business Services (SBS) and comprises a three-lot agreement, to provide public sector authorities with access to support and services for cybersecurity.
The framework, which is now live and worth an estimated £250 million, will provide NHS trusts, local and central government departments, education, police forces, charities and housing associations with simplified access to approved cybersecurity service options.
“What’s exciting about this new framework is that it goes beyond technology procurement to include assessment and consultancy – helping organisations understand where to put cyber security tools and how to optimise them,” said Softcat’s contract manager, Andy Bruen.
“And the Framework’s direct award facility enables customers to respond rapidly; in areas where time can be critical to successful outcomes. This provides a major benefit to our customers as we can make recommendations and put the solution in place quickly and efficiently.”
There are three lots in the framework: Emergency Cyber Incident Management, Cyber Security Consultancy Services and Security Personnel.
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Other suppliers to secure three lots on the framework include Accenture, DXC, Deloitte and KPMG.
Phil Davies, Procurement Director at NHS SBS, said: “Technology plays a huge part in the way the NHS delivers patient care, so it is vital that healthcare providers keep data secure, whilst being prepared for and resilient against attacks.
“The NHS and public sector has been proactive in harnessing improvements in cyber security since the WannaCry attacks in 2017 but there is still more work to be done. This framework provides a sustainable and trusted solution to help organisations meet the challenges around cyber security head on.”
Said Matthew Helling, head of cyber security services at Softcat: “It’s more beneficial to help businesses build a strategy for success, rather than pointing out the things that they might not be doing so well.”
NHS staff have been hit with more than 40,000 scam emails during the COVID-19 outbreak, according to official figures.
