Scope
Reference
C416074
Description
Instructions:
1. The purpose of this document is to enhance the Authority's understanding of the marketplace and its options for sourcing for a potential future requirement.
2. The issuance of this request for information (RFI) does not constitute a sourcing exercise nor will the Authority pay any costs incurred in the preparation of a response
to this RFI.
3. The UK Health Security Agency's (UKHSA) key objectives for this RFI are:
a. understand the ability of the marketplace to fulfil its requirements;
b. refine the scope of the requirements to best align to the marketplace; and
c. inform the Authority's chosen route to market to best enable competition.
4. The key dates for this RFI are as follows:
1. RFI Published: 19th January 2026
2. RFI Response 2nd February 2026
5. Should you have any questions or queries relating to this RFI, please use the Atamis portal's messaging centre to direct your questions to us for a response.
6. If a response is not received by the RFI response deadline this will have no impact on your ability to tender for the opportunity in the future. UKHSA will not enter into contracts on the basis of replies to this RFI.
Description of Scope of Requirements:
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is exploring opportunities to supplement its existing Containment Level 3 (CL3) laboratory capacity through collaboration with operational CL3 facilities across the UK.
This Request for Information (RFI) seeks to understand the capabilities, readiness, and interest of organisations that currently operate CL3 laboratories and may be able to support UKHSA's public health mission during surge periods or emergencies.
Objectives - Identify operational CL3 laboratories with spare capacity or surge readiness. -Assess technical, digital, and governance capabilities for collaboration. - Explore commercial models for potential engagement with UKHSA.
This RFI is intended for organisations that currently operate CL3 laboratories in the UK. Responses should focus on existing facilities and capabilities that could be mobilised to support UKHSA's laboratory operations, particularly during public health emergencies or
periods of high demand.
Should you wish to respond to this Request for Information, please complete and return the attached RFI via email to joshua.williams@ukhsa.gov.uk.
Total value (estimated)
- £1 excluding VAT
- £1 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 June 2026 to 1 June 2030
- 4 years, 1 day
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 71900000 - Laboratory services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
2 February 2026
Engagement process description
Request for information.
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
1 April 2026
Contracting authority
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care acting as part of the Crown through UK Health Security Agency
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PBMQ-7576-DVGW
10 South Colonnade
London
E14 4PU
United Kingdom
Contact name: Josh Williams
Email: joshua.williams@ukhsa.gov.uk
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-health-security-agency
Region: UKI42 - Tower Hamlets
Organisation type: Public authority - central government