BSA media statement on Royal College of Nursing’s vote to end the contracting out of cleaning to private firms in the NHS

Mark Fox, BSA Chief Executive, speaking in support of the private sector’s role in providing cleaning services to the NHS rejected the conference’s motion.

He said:

“The RCN conference is wrong to have voted to end the private sector’s involvement in providing cleaning services to the NHS. This is a backwards looking move that will undermine the public’s confidence in their commitment to seek the highest standards for patients.”

“Outsourcing a service to the private sector should not mean the public sector abrogates its responsibility to effectively manage and monitor the service procured.”

“There is no evidence to suggest that outsourcing cleaning services causes increased rates of infection. Indeed the private sector has led the way in developing new and innovative technologies to ensure the highest standards of cleaning.”


Ends

If you would like further comment please contact Mark Fox, Chief Executive, BSA, on 07774-449522

Notes for Editors:

- The BSA is the trade body that represents UK providers of business and outsourced services.

- BSA Full Members have a combined worldwide turnover of c.£67 billion and employ around one and a half million people. In the UK the combined turnover is c.£14 billion and c.300,000 people are employed across the country.

- BSA members include practitioners and their advisors. BSA members provide business and outsourced services across the private and public sector in areas that include health, education, defence, waste management and housing.


Mark Fox
Chief Executive
BSA - The Business Services Association
020-7786 6301
07774-449522
www.bsa-org.com