Discussions over the possibility of private-sector investment in NHS Professionals are ongoing, according to a spokesperson for the not-for-profit organisation.

On 4 August, a Prior Information Notice (PIN) was published in the Official Journal of the European Union seeking potential investors from the private sector. This led to union Unison to voice its opposition to more private involvement in NHS Professionals, singling out recruitment agencies.

However, an NHS Professionals spokesperson told Recruiter that no decision would be made until discussions have been carried out.

The spokesperson said: “The Department of Health has been open about the intention to explore potential private-sector investment in NHS Professionals since spring 2009. This is about discussing options with potential independent-sector investors that could help to ensure our services are as efficient and effective as possible.

“The PIN is the start of the dialogue around the possibility of private-sector investment in NHS Professionals and no decision will be made until the end of the process.

“In the run up to this announcement, NHS Professionals and the Department of Health have engaged with a range of stakeholders, including Trade Unions, to keep them informed of progress.”