In November 2024, Attain was commissioned by Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust (MSEFT) to provide targeted support to accelerate delivery of its Cost Improvement Plan (CIP). The partnership aimed to strengthen procurement leadership capacity, identify new efficiency opportunities, and enhance commercial discipline across the Trust. Working alongside the Trust’s finance, procurement and operational teams, Attain has delivered substantial in-year savings and established a stronger foundation for long-term sustainability.

What We did

We provided programme and commercial expertise to deliver:

  • Savings efficiency delivery – supported the Trust to realise over £6 million in in-year savings through rigorous prioritisation, aligned leadership focus, and delivery oversight.

  • Strategic procurement planning – enhanced commercial input into complex procurement activity, enabling the Trust to plan and scope major outsourcing programmes with greater confidence.

  • NHS supply chain efficiencies – identified opportunities for price challenge, product switches, and volume standardisation to secure improved value and consistency.

  • Procurement governance and compliance – better adherence to procurement regulations, introduced new documentation, and risk-based decision-making.

  • Capability development – built the capacity of the Trust’s internal team, embedding a sustainable approach to CIP delivery.

This work has supported MSEFT to maximise financial value, enhance governance, and build the internal capability to maintain delivery momentum into future years.

Impacts

  • £6+ million - In-year savings delivered (FY24/25)

  • £18 million - In-year savings target (on track) for delivery (FY25/26), building on success of previous year

Attain has made a significant contribution to supporting our Improving Value programme through financial impact and supporting our (procurement / commercial) team with leadership, professional development and delivery.

I would have no hesitation in recommending Attain to NHS Trusts in financial recovery who require impact and delivery at pace.

Mustafa Sheikh, Director of Procurement and Contracting