HIV Anti-Stigma Training-HIV Opt out Testing for Blood Borne Viruses programme
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Think about the real goal
This tender isn't just about delivering training.
It's about changing attitudes.
NHS England wants a partner who can transform how healthcare professionals across 61 trusts view and handle HIV.
Yes, the contract is for anti-stigma training.
But the real goal is to foster an environment where patients feel safe, respected and free from judgement.
The initial contract covers 24 months, with an option to extend for another year.
This is a significant opportunity, with a maximum budget of £900,000 over the full term.
Pay attention to what they say
NHS England is clear.
They want a provider who can address stigma head-on.
They describe the training as part of their "HIV Opt-out Testing for Blood Borne Viruses programme".
This isn't just about ticking boxes.
It's about integrating this training into everyday practice.
Your proposal should reflect an understanding of this.
Demonstrate how your training will be more than just a one-off session.
Who are you really training?
Think about the healthcare professionals in these 61 trusts.
They’re busy.
They’re juggling multiple priorities.
And they probably already have preconceived notions about HIV.
Your training needs to engage them.
Make them reconsider their biases.
Help them understand the impact of stigma on patient care.
This is as much about changing hearts and minds as it is about imparting knowledge.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder claimed to deliver transformative training.
But few could prove it.
Have you run similar programmes before?
Share the outcomes.
- Testimonials from past participants
- Data showing changes in attitudes or practices
- Case studies demonstrating long-term impact
If you have evidence, use it.
Show how you'll make life easier for the trusts
Every new training programme adds to the workload.
The best providers ease that burden.
If I were writing this tender, I'd explain how my approach fits seamlessly into the existing schedules of these healthcare professionals.
How will you minimise disruption?
How will you ensure high attendance rates?
How will you track and report on progress?
The journey doesn't end with training
Consistency is key.
Training should be the start of an ongoing process.
After the workshops, how will you continue to support these trusts?
Consider follow-up sessions.
Offer additional resources.
Provide channels for ongoing support and advice.
I'd want to see how you'll keep the momentum going.
Don't just focus on the mechanics
It's tempting to get lost in the logistics.
Number of sessions, duration, materials.
But remember, NHS England is looking for a partner who understands the bigger picture.
The impact of stigma on patient care.
The importance of empathy and understanding.
Every part of your submission should reflect this awareness.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on the logistics of the training
- Lack evidence of past success
- Ignore the need for ongoing support post-training
- Fail to engage with the broader goals of the programme
- Present generic training solutions without tailoring to NHS England's needs
- Overlook the importance of empathy and understanding in reducing stigma
My Final Thoughts
At its heart, this tender is about changing perceptions and improving patient care.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for a partner who understands the delicate balance of providing information while also transforming attitudes.
The contract is valued at £900,000, with a strong emphasis on quality and impact.
That means your written submission carries a lot of weight.
Focus on evidence, engagement and ongoing support.
That's what will set you apart.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.