The requested increases are in line with market expectations and aligns with the market engagement activity undertaken by 7F Commercial in August 2022. The primary cost pressure for the requested increase is increasing salaries within the NHS which has driven challenges in private sector recruitment. Alignment to the NHS bands is required to remain competitive and CRG have increased salaries by 10%+ in 2022 to achieve this. Inflationary pressures on non-pay costs have also contributed to the price increase.

Service Credits
A temporary cap on credits will be applied to support investment in a recruitment ramp-up period. This will limit credits to a combined £20,000 across the 5 Forces between Jan 2023 – March 2023, though a ceiling is applied where credits in excess of £45,000 will remain payable.
The Supplier Relationship Manager for 7 Force Commercial Services has requested authorisation for the signing of the extension of contract. The Chief Executive of Bedfordshire OPCC authorised and confirmed approval of her electronic signature to be used and added to Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire Hertfordshire Tri-Force (BCH) extension of contract.

Recommendation
To note decision
Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner
I hereby approve the recommendations above.