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The NHS has implemented a multimillion-pound framework through which health-service organisations will be able to access refurbished smartphones and repairs to existing devices.

The buying vehicle came into effect on 1 July and lasts for an initial term of two years, according to newly published commercial documents. Two further 12-month extensions could take the framework’s ultimate end date to 30 June 2026.

The deal, which is expected to be worth at least £30m to the chosen suppliers, is split into three lots. The first of these is dedicated to device repair.

“Under this lot, the supplier will carry out diagnoses and repair of mobile electronic devices,” the contract notice said. “Repairs will include work to the frame, small parts, LCD, OLED, and camera. All repairs would be covered with an appropriate warranty.”

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The second lot relates to the supply of refurbished smartphones and other mobile electronic devices, as well as warranty protection. The final lot covers the provision of a full service, encompassing both repairs and the supply of refurbished tech.

The award of the framework was led by the Countess of Chester Hospital but the deal is open for use by all NHS bodies – as well as the wider public sector.

The intention is to provide organisations with access to mobile devices while helping to limit costs – and carbon footprint.

“The aim of the proposed framework is to provide a sustainable and cost-effective method to extend the life cycle of mobile electronic devices,” procurement documents said. “By using mobile electronic devices for longer, there will be a reduction in the environmental impact from the decrease in the quantity of devices created and disposed of each year.”

Five suppliers have won a spot on the buying vehicle: Kingsfield Computer Products; Multimessage Systems; Teqex; Network 2 Supplies; and North Wales Technologies.