The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT(UK)) has partnered with NHS England to launch a new first of its kind programme that provides learning and development opportunities for NHS logistics and materials management staff.

Launched on 13 November at the annual Health Care Supply Association (HCSA) Conference, the NHS-CILT(UK) Learning and Development Academy programme has the potential to offer over 1,100 NHS staff tailored solutions around NHS operations. 

The programme is specifically aligned with the Institute’s professional standards and is fully funded by NHS England.

Shaun Fardy, CILT(UK) Director of Service Delivery said: "This collaboration between NHS England and CILT(UK) is a landmark investment in the professional development of NHS material management and logistics staff.

"By promoting best practice and recognised professional standards with NHS operational needs, we’re building a strategic foundation that empowers staff, drives technical innovation, and strengthens organisational resilience.

“This partnership paves the way for the NHS to achieve its objectives through a skilled, agile materials management and logistics workforce, ensuring that vital services continue to meet the highest standards for patients across the country."

Tailored modular learning are CILT(UK)’s most sought after programmes, as they account for organisational structure and strategy, the interconnectivity of supply chain operational functions and the professional development needs of team members.

Since the unprecedented days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the critical role logistics, transport and supply chain practitioners and professionals play in ensuring food reaches our tables and that medical supplies remain stocked has gained heightened recognition.

The announcement of the programme aligned with CILT(UK)’s strategy of ‘Professionalising the Profession’ represents the Institute’s mission of ensuring and retaining that visibility and work in the logistics, transport and supply chain sectors does not go unnoticed. 

The structure of the programme stemmed from CILT(UK)’s experience in designing engaging learning solutions which promote a learners’ position as part of a wider profession.

 It highlights their skills and experiences where relevant in all aspects of supply chain activities and where they can develop.  

This was further informed by the CILT(UK) team visiting 10 hospitals across the country in December 23, spending time with NHS leadership teams and procurement and supply chain practitioners and professionals.

Following these visits a pilot programme was launched which became the blueprint of the programme you see today. 

Key takeaways from the Institute’s visits highlighted operational constraints and a strong desire for learning, particularly in understanding how others address daily challenges and improve various aspects of their operations.

Tania Barker, CILT(UK) Future Capabilities Director said: "With this pioneering programme, we’re providing NHS logistics teams with invaluable tools to drive real change within their operations,”

“By tailoring learning to NHS-specific challenges and standards, we’re fostering a culture of continuous improvement, equipping staff to deliver even greater resilience and efficiency across the healthcare supply chain.

“This partnership is a testament to the essential role that material movement and logistics teams play in safeguarding vital services for patients nationwide."