The Challenge

MIAA Solutions was commissioned to provide independent advice and guidance to assess the robustness of corporate assurance regarding Health Technical Memorandum (HTMs) and similar regulation/standards relevant to property management and facilities across all Foundation Trust sites across an entire ICS system.

HTMs outline the legal and operational standards healthcare estates must meet to ensure the safety, well-being, and efficient operation of facilities. Non-compliance or failure to adhere to HTM regulations can expose organisations to significant legal risks, including prosecution in the event of incidents. Therefore, a bespoke evaluation was necessary to guarantee all Trusts' adherence to these regulations.

The Approach

A bespoke programme of work was developed to provide an evaluation of the submissions made by the specialist contractors to assure the NHS Hospital Trust regarding the processes to inspect and report the status of adherence to HTM and compliance with statutory and mandatory requirements. 

The specialist review (including physical inspection) centred on a 154 bed mental health hospital. The outcome was used to inform the future operating model, standing procedures and reporting arrangements. It was produced using a bespoke tool, developed to assess compliance status in any healthcare estate.

The Outcomes

Over a period of eight weeks, MIAA Solutions worked with the NHS Facilities and Estates Service and specialist sub-contractors to complete the independent assessment of compliance.

Impact on Stakeholders: The outcomes of the assurance plan/action points were relevant to multiple key stakeholders, including:

• Executive and Non-Executive Directors: Provided assurance that the Trust was operating in accordance with HTM standards while highlighting areas for improvement.
• Clinical and Non-Clinical Teams: Improved understanding of the safety protocols in place to protect both staff and patients.
• Multidisciplinary Ward Team (including mental health professionals): Ensured a safer, more compliant working environment that supports effective patient care. Enhanced the team's confidence in the safety of facilities, helping them focus on delivering holistic care without concerns about compliance risks.
• Sub-Contractors: Enhanced oversight of the Estates and Facilities management services, ensuring that they met statutory and contractual obligations.

MIAA Solutions’ independent assessment provided the ICS with an objective evaluation of its compliance with HTM standards. By identifying both areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, the ICS was better positioned to enhance its estate management practices, ensure the safety and well-being of its patients and staff, and maintain full compliance with regulatory standards.

The findings from this pilot project will inform future operating models and reporting structures, ensuring that the ICS continues to meet its legal and operational obligations in property management and facilities services across its system.