Nationally Contracted
Products FAQ
Couch Rolls
Q
Will you still have stock of current products available when the Couch Rolls
Nationally Contracted Products (NCP) programme is launched on the 27 March
2017?
A
Existing products will be available until 27 March at which point you will only be able to
order the NCP product.
Q
Are the NPC codes changing?
A
Yes the two new couch rolls will have new NPC codes –MJT044 and
MRT359 (these can also be accessed on the attachments within the Important Customer
Notice, live on the dedicated NCP webpage on our website).
Q
What support will be available to trusts during the implementation/conversion
period to minimise the impact on current resources?
A
Support will be available from your Account Manager, and the successful suppliers on
the NCP programme can provide product training and literature.
Information is also available via the Buyer, Diane Woodham,
[email protected] (mobile: 07917594513) or any of the Clinical
Nurse Advisors
Q
Why have certain products not been included in this exercise e.g. blue couch rolls
and certain lengths?
A
Following customer consultation, the colour of couch roll was considered of no relevance
to the product quality, therefore white couch rolls were selected in line with the NCP
programme objectives of delivering optimum cost effectiveness whilst maintaining
product quality. The standardisation of the couch roll lengths allowed greater supplier
inclusion and competition during the tender process and accommodates required
variance without compromising efficiency.
Q
Can you advise how the specification was developed?
A
Products included in this mini competition were subject to the specification which was
developed as part of the Paper Hygiene Products Framework, which launched April
2016. This specification was developed in conjunction with suppliers and the Trusted
Customer.
Key elements for the specification include both rolls being ply(2), 18 gsm (grammes per
square metre - per ply). The length was standardised and the width of the rolls was
within a tolerance based on the current rolls.
Q
How many sheets are on a roll?
A
The couch roll has 177 sheets and the couch roll / wiper has 148 sheets.
Q
What is the size of the sheet length on a roll?
A
The couch roll sheet length is 339mm and the couch roll / wiper length is 380mm.
Q
Will the couch rolls fit our existing dispensers?
A
The new couch roll is 480mm wide and should fit all dispensers. The couch roll spindle
at the end of the couches should be adjustable to accommodate the current Kimberley
Clark and SCA product. If any issues do occur these should be raised with your Account
Manager who will liaise with the supplier.
Q
What contingency is built in if one of the suppliers has a supply issue?
A
Suppliers have signed their agreement, within the mini competition documentation that if
they cannot provide products, an alternative supplier’s products can be supplied. It is the
awarded supplier who would then cover any difference in price. Therefore, trusts would
not be impacted.
Q
Where can I get more detailed information?
A
Please visit www.supplychain.nhs.uk/ncp for the latest information about the NCP
programme.
You can also contact your Account Manager or Customer Services Advisor