Framework Transition Guidance
for Suppliers

Introduction

Everything ICT has recently been awarded a new ICT framework by HEART Academies Trust. As we approach the expiry of our current framework with E2BN in July, you might be wondering what the transition from the current framework to the new one means for you as an Everything ICT supplier. The answer? It’s business as usual. There are no major changes to your supplier T&Cs under the new framework. The transition is designed to be smooth and straightforward, with only minor clarifications and administrative updates. Your day-to-day relationship with Everything ICT and our customers will not change, and your contracts and status are secure.

We’ve managed transitions like this before and will work to keep everything running as usual.

In summary

Framework transitions are a normal part of public sector procurement. We expect the next framework to be ready in time for a seamless handover, ensuring your partnership with Everything ICT continues smoothly. All contracts awarded before 20th July 2026 are secure, supported, and will run for their full term under the old framework arrangements. We look forward to continuing our working relationship with you as we transition to the new arrangements.

The information below provides additional

detail regarding the upcoming transition.

Key facts What you need to know

What’s changing:

There are no major changes to your supplier Terms and Conditions. The new HEART framework adopts T&Cs that are closely aligned with those of the previous E2BN arrangement, so all essential supplier obligations, rights, and protections continue as before. The structure of contract awards, ongoing support, and payment processes remains unchanged. Any updates in the HEART T&Cs are either clarifications or minor administrative adjustments, rather than substantial changes in your day-to-day requirements.

New awards:

The current framework will continue to grant new contract awards until midnight on 19th July 2026. It’s business as usual right up to this date — you can continue to support customers and win new business as normal. Looking ahead, we anticipate our new framework will begin operation before the current one expires, so we’ll be able to continue making new awards without interruption.

Ongoing contracts remain valid:

Any contract awarded under the existing framework before 20th July 2026 will continue to be fully valid and enforceable for its entire term—even if it runs for several years after the expiry of the framework itself.

No changes to support or payments:

Everything ICT will continue to manage and support all contracts awarded under the current framework, with no changes to payment processes or contract management.

Supplier status:

Your place on the supplier list and your ability to bid for opportunities and deliver contracts remains unchanged.

No need to reapply:

You will not need to make a fresh application to supply under the new HEART framework. We may ask you for some updated information to meet the new framework’s administrative commitments, but the process will be simple and guided.

Minor Clarifications in the HEART T&Cs

The HEART Academies Trust T&Cs are based on the Government Legal Department’s standard terms, with some customisation for HEART’s requirements. Here are a few clarifications:

Definitions and Schedules:

The HEART T&Cs include more comprehensive definitions and schedule references, which align with PA2023 and current best practice but do not change the substance of contract delivery.

Framework Management:

The framework management structure and review processes are explained in more detail, but the expectation of regular engagement and performance monitoring is unchanged.

Neutrality and Safeguarding:

There is explicit language around supplier neutrality and safeguarding, but these reinforce existing expectations.

Insurance and Compliance:

Minimum insurance requirements and compliance with safeguarding, GDPR, and modern slavery legislation continue as before.

Variation and Termination:

The HEART T&Cs set out clear procedures for contract variation and termination, but these reflect standard public sector practice and do not introduce new risks for compliant suppliers.

Data Protection:

The obligations on data protection, confidentiality, and security are maintained, with detailed schedules included for clarity.

Continuous Improvement:

There is an explicit encouragement for continuous improvement and sustainability, supporting the ongoing drive for value and best practice.

What this means for you

You can keep delivering excellent service for contracts awarded before the transition, with the same support and processes you’re used to. There will be no disruption to payments or contract management, and our team will keep you updated about the new framework and any procurement opportunities. If you have questions about contract extensions, the transition process, or upcoming opportunities, we’re here to provide guidance and support.

Questions for you to consider

  • Are you clear on the final date for new awards under the current framework?
  • Do you have existing contracts or projects with customers that will continue beyond July 2026?
  • Would you like clarification on how the transition affects your current contracts and payments?
  • Do you have questions about contract extensions after the E2BN framework ends?
  • Are you interested in future Everything ICT frameworks or opportunities?
  • Do you have any concerns about business continuity or support after July 2026?

Frequently asked questions

The current iteration of the E2BN-awarded Everything ICT Framework allows customers to grant new contract awards up to midnight on 19 July 2026. As with previous framework transitions, we fully anticipate that the new framework will begin operation well before this date, ensuring continuity for all our suppliers and customers.

Contract delivery and obligations

Do I need to take any action as a supplier either before or after the transition?

You should continue delivering any current contracts as usual. Awards made through the current framework will remain fully valid. As we transition, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in new procurement opportunities under the new framework, which we expect to be operational in time for uninterrupted service.

Will there be changes to payment or contract management?

No. Everything ICT will continue to manage and support all contracts awarded under the current framework, maintaining the same processes you’re used to. This approach will not change with the new framework.

Do I need to reapply to keep delivering contracts after the current framework ends?

No. As above, all contracts awarded through the current framework are covered by your existing approval. When the new framework launches we may ask you to provide us with some updated information, but we’ll guide you through any steps needed to continue working with us and we aim to make the process as simple as possible.

Will my place on the supplier list change?

No. Your status for contracts awarded through the current framework remains unchanged. As we launch the next framework, we’ll keep you informed about new opportunities to work with Everything ICT.

Will contracts be terminated early?

Unless the relevant customer decides otherwise, all contracts awarded under the current framework before 20th July 2026 will continue for their full duration even after the framework itself expires, with ongoing support from Everything ICT, just as you would expect.

Commercial concerns

Will my revenue protections continue after the transition?

Contracts awarded through the current framework are protected by the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. This legal certainty will also apply to any contract awards made under the new framework under terms of the Procurement Act 2023.

Will there be any effects on my working relationships with framework customers?

No, there will be no effects on your day-to-day working relationships with customers under any current contracts. So you can continue to work with them as usual. And when customers begin to use the new framework, the terms concerning day-to-day working relationships are largely the same, so your day-to-day working relationships will not change.

Can new suppliers join after the transition date?

Yes. Our application and approval process will remain broadly the same as it is now, so suppliers wishing to join after the current framework expires can do so.

Looking ahead

Everything ICT is committed to a seamless transition. We expect the new framework to be operational in time to overlap with the current one, so you can look forward to ongoing partnership, guidance, and support. We’ll keep you updated about future opportunities and are always here to answer your questions.

Contact and support

If you have any questions about the framework transition, contract delivery, or future opportunities, please get in touch at suppliers@everythingict.org, or visit www.everythingict.org/contact.

 

We appreciate your continued partnership and look forward to continuing our working relationships with you in the future.

Guidance and support

We recognise you may have questions about what the transition means for your organisation. To support you, you’ll find a range of downloadable guides and FAQs below for both customers and suppliers.

Stay informed

We’ll continue to update this page with the latest information as the transition progresses. Please check back regularly for updates to guides and any new information as it becomes available. If you have any specific queries or need tailored advice, our team is here to help. Please get in touch with us at info@everythingict.org or on 020 4551 8995 with your questions. Downloadable guides and FAQs will be updated as further information becomes available.