In this episode, Ann Cojeen, commercial real estate partner at Hempsons, discusses how NHS providers can secure value for money in property transactions and disputes.

Ann delves into the estate code, particularly HBN00-08, and its references to value for money. She explores the roles of agents, surveyors, and solicitors in achieving value for money, the importance of commercial terms, and the benefits of appointing an agent.

Ann also covers the significance of fit-out works, the necessity of having a detailed specification, and the role of a dilapidations surveyor. Tune in for valuable insights and top tips on making informed decisions and achieving value for money in property transactions.

To find out more about our real estate services and to contact the team, visit https://hpsns.co/ytrealestate

Employment law partner Saira Ramadan examines the recent UK Supreme Court ruling in For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers.

This episode explores the Court’s interpretation of 'biological sex' under the Equality Act 2010, reaffirming that the terms 'man', 'woman', and 'sex' refer to biological sex. Saira provides an overview of the case background, unpacks the implications of the judgment, and offers practical guidance for employers.

Her advice includes answers to frequently asked questions around workplace facilities such as toilets, changing rooms, and other gendered spaces, helping organisations navigate this evolving legal landscape with confidence.

To find out more about our employment law services and to contact the team, visit https://hpsns.co/ytemployment

Primary care experts, Justin Cumberlege and Robert McCartney, discuss the intricacies of merging GP practices.

They begin by clarifying what a merger typically involves - two or more practices coming together to operate as a single entity.

The conversation explores the strategic motivations for merging, such as financial sustainability, improved service delivery, and increased influence within Primary Care Networks (PCNs). They highlight the benefits of scaling up, including shared responsibilities, enhanced workforce capabilities, and greater resilience in a rapidly evolving NHS landscape.

The episode also examines different structural models, including incorporation as limited companies, and how regulatory changes have made such models more viable. The importance of thorough preparation is emphasised - particularly in establishing a shared vision, conducting due diligence, and understanding each practice’s assets, liabilities, and staffing structures.

Key legal and operational considerations are discussed, including staff restructuring, premises management, regulatory compliance (such as CQC registration), and the novation of GMS contracts. The hosts stress the value of early legal input, confidentiality agreements, and well-drafted heads of terms to guide the merger process effectively.

In this episode, Helen Redfern, a senior solicitor in the procurement team at Hempsons, outlines the key obligations and requirements for English contracting authorities regarding regulated below threshold contracts under the Procurement Act 2023.

Helen addresses common queries, including the definition of below threshold contracts, direct awards without competition, running formal competitions, and the prompt payment provisions. She provides practical guidance on the various notices required and the flexibility contracting authorities have in awarding and managing these contracts.

00:00 Introduction to the Procurement Act 2023

01:03 Understanding regulated below threshold contracts

01:40 Key considerations for English Contracting Authorities

02:34 Options for awarding below threshold contracts

03:50 Direct award without competition

05:27 Running a competition for below threshold contracts

08:59 Managing regulated below threshold contracts

10:06 Conclusion

To find out more and to contact our procurement team, visit our website.

With The Procurement Act 2023 coming into force on Monday 24 February 2025, we have received a number of queries about how this will impact the Provider Selection Regime. Hempsons' head of procurement, Andrew Daly, explains what people can expect when the Act comes into force.

Visit our PSR hub: https://www.hempsons.co.uk/services/the-provider-selection-regime/

Hempsons' head of procurement, Andrew Daly, gives an update on the introduction of the Procurement Act 2023 and what it will mean for businesses in practice.

Register for our free Procurement Act webinar on Thursday 13 February.

Find out more about our specialist procurement team

Healthcare litigation expert Patricia Roe and primary care expert Justin Cumberlege explain the NHS Resolution indemnity scheme for GPs. Find out more about our primary care law services and contact the team: https://hpsns.co/practitionerspodcasts

Healthcare law specialists Stephen Maratos and Stephen Evans host this episode discussing patient capacity, acting in their best interests, and the importance of thorough disclosure in the coronial and civil court process.

Primary healthcare law experts Justin Cumberlege and Robert McCartney host our first podcast of the year, discussing what the new Provider Selection Regime means for primary healthcare providers.

In this episode, they discuss what the Provider Selection Regime is, and look at three different scenarios where it would apply.

For more information about our primary healthcare legal services and how we can help your business, visit our website.

What are the rules around social media for doctors and other primary care health professionals? Join Robert McCartney and Rachel Levine for the latest episode of our primary care podcast, where they navigate the complex and ever-evolving issue of social media uses and abuses in employment law.

In this episode they discuss:

00:16 - Introduction

01:00 - The evolving nature of social media

02:06 - Which social media platforms cause the biggest issues?

03:44 - Social media and the law

04:54 - Tribunal scenarios and outcomes

06:54 - Cyber bullying and the law

08:02 - Personal opinion or work issue?

11:13 - Different standards for different professions

13:12 - Data protection and company monitoring

15:35 - Processes for practice managers

19:10 - Freedom of expression