Connect2framework For Umbrella Company Services To The Public Sector
Framework Description
Commercial Services Kent's Connect2Framework for Umbrella Company Services (reference C2UF) gives public bodies access to umbrella companies that employ and pay contingent workers. It is an open framework under the Procurement Act 2023, available to CSKL, its joint venture partners and other contracting authorities across the UK and Channel Islands. It had an estimated start of 1 April 2026, and the scheme runs to 28 February 2034.
Context & Use Case
Local authorities, NHS bodies, police, fire and rescue services, educational institutions, registered charities and publicly owned companies use it when temporary or contract workers are engaged through an umbrella company. Contracts can be awarded with or without competition. Using a vetted umbrella company that runs payroll correctly reduces the buyer's tax and employment risk.
Scope of Services
Umbrella company employment of contingent workers Payroll management Saferec-certified compliance
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Umbrella companies with Saferec certification and a reliable compliance record; the 2026 tender evaluated both, alongside price. It is an open framework with no cap on supplier numbers, so firms not on it can apply when Commercial Services Kent reopens it. Being added to the HMRC watchlist means immediate removal.
Buyer Benefits
Umbrella company compliance is under close watch from HMRC and the public. A vetted framework lets buyers show they have checked providers' payroll practices and avoided disguised remuneration schemes. A single route open to councils, NHS, blue-light and education bodies also makes rates and reporting consistent across a staffing supply chain.
Next Steps
Appointed umbrella companies should make sure staffing agencies working with CSK buyers know they are on the framework, and keep payroll audit evidence and Saferec certification current. Others should get certified and watch Commercial Services Kent's Delta eSourcing listing for the next reopening. Build the £5 per timesheet fee into your pricing.
How Athena Can Help
For umbrella companies on this framework, Athena can help you win any further competitions and buyer-level selections. Our bid management support builds win themes on compliance, transparency and payroll accuracy, and checks your submissions for weak spots.
If you are not on it, our framework application services prepare your policies and evidence for the next reopening and map other public sector workforce frameworks that use umbrella or payroll providers. Our public procurement bid advice can tell you which routes are worth the effort.
