Client Intro

Wheelshare is a pioneering company specialising in automated self-service wheelchair rental stations, catering to both healthcare and aviation sectors. Founded on a mission to enhance mobility access, Wheelshare has established itself as a leader in innovative, technology-driven solutions that streamline the provision of wheelchairs for patients and travellers. By combining operational efficiency with a strong commitment to social value and environmental responsibility, Wheelshare continues to set new standards in the mobility solutions market.

Aim 

The NHS’s Framework for Wheelchairs, Specialist Seating and Related Services is highly competitive, with stringent requirements around operational quality, value for money, and demonstrable contributions to social and environmental sustainability. To secure a place on this Framework, Wheelshare needed to articulate a robust social value proposition and evidence a clear carbon reduction plan, in line with NHS and government expectations. The challenge lay in translating Wheelshare’s innovative model and sustainability ethos into a compelling, standards-compliant submission that would resonate with NHS procurement teams and decision-makers.

Solution 

Recognising the importance of a holistic, evidence-based approach, Wheelshare partnered with Transformacy, a consultancy renowned for guiding organisations through complex public procurement processes. Transformacy’s remit encompassed the development of a comprehensive Social Value Strategy, drafting a PPN 06/21-compliant Carbon Reduction Plan, and authoring a Social Value Response aligned with NHS priorities and the latest regulatory guidance. Central to the solution was the integration of lifecycle thinking, operational performance, and resource efficiency, as detailed in Wheelshare’s environmental action plan and supporting documentation.

Implementation

Lifecycle Thinking and Environmental Stewardship

Transformacy worked closely with Wheelshare to embed lifecycle thinking across product design, procurement, and service delivery. Through a detailed product analysis, areas of greatest environmental impact were identified, guiding targeted interventions to minimise emissions, waste, and resource consumption. This led to the supply of wheelchairs with 97% recyclable component volume to three NHS trusts, coupled with a robust loan scheme that mitigated theft, loss, and damage through enhanced customer data collection.

Operational Excellence and Circular Economy Principles

A timed action plan was established, rooted in circular economy principles and aligned with Wheelshare’s published Carbon Reduction Plan. Key elements included:

• • Incentivising renewable energy use among suppliers, with a target of 50% by the end of year one
  • Promoting supplier compliance with ISO 14001 and 50001 standards, aiming for 50% coverage by year end and offering necessary support
  • Reducing logistics emissions via consolidated shipments and low-carbon providers, targeting a 30% reduction by end of year two
  • Implementing a reuse programme for damaged wheelchairs, enabling the recovery and reuse of parts from the outset
  • Maintaining 97% product recyclability by continuous product design reviews and partnering with suppliers focused on recyclability
  • Switching packaging to 80% recyclable material by year two

Data collection and monitoring was formalised through annual emissions calculations using GHG Protocol-aligned methodologies, with environmental KPIs reviewed by senior management. Progress was transparently reported in annual emissions reports, with a Net Zero target for 2045 (using a 2023 baseline), and regular updates provided during contract meetings.

Social Value and Stakeholder Engagement

Transformacy shaped a Social Value Response tailored to NHS priorities, highlighting Wheelshare’s collaboration with suppliers, compliance with the NHS Supplier Roadmap, and adherence to the OECD Extended Producer Responsibility guidance. The proposal showcased not only environmental gains but also Wheelshare’s role in creating social value through improved mobility access, reduced health inequalities, and enhanced patient experience.

Results

Wheelshare’s submission, underpinned by Transformacy’s strategic guidance, was successful in securing a place on the NHS Framework for Wheelchairs, Specialist Seating and Related Services. This achievement demonstrates Wheelshare’s operational excellence, leadership in environmental sustainability, and commitment to delivering social value in partnership with the NHS. Measurable outcomes include a significant reduction in waste and emissions, increased recyclability and reuse of materials, and demonstrable progress against Net Zero targets.

Client Testimonial 

"transformacy supported us through the NHS Supply Chain Framework tender process. Their project management was good, and they were available when needed. While they had not previously worked on this specific tender, they carried out the necessary research and added real value in shaping the Social Value elements of our proposal. This important contribution played a part in Wheelshare successfully securing a place on this strategically important framework for Wheelchairs, Specialist Seating and Related Services." — Ido Perry, CEO, Wheelshare UK&I

Inspiration 

The partnership between Wheelshare and Transformacy exemplifies how innovation, robust strategy, and operational discipline can deliver tangible social and environmental benefits within public sector procurement. Wheelshare’s ongoing commitment to lifecycle thinking, continuous improvement, and stakeholder collaboration positions it as a valued partner to the NHS and a standard-bearer for sustainable mobility solutions. Looking ahead, Wheelshare remains dedicated to advancing carbon reduction, resource efficiency, and social impact, ensuring enduring value for healthcare providers and the communities they serve.