Public sector procurement organisation ESPO has launches a new version of MSTAR, a national framework providing managed temporary workers to local authorities, schools, central government, NHS and wider public sector organisations throughout the UK.

The original MSTAR framework was launched in April 2011 and will expire this month.

Under the new framework, the number of suppliers has been extended from 10 to 13 and are all managed service providers who will look after all temporary staffing requirements helping to improve control, safeguarding and visibility as well as delivering efficiency savings.

Three different service delivery models are available through three different lots including neutral vendor, master vendor and a hybrid of the two.

Strategic services available under the framework include process/enhancement services, pre-employment CV screening, dedicated on-site account management, and a Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) integration checking service, while advisory/development services include Swedish derogation advice demand management, workforce planning, customer brand development and employment legislation consultancy.

MSTAR has also been designed to help in the provision of qualified social workers. The framework includes new service delivery and pricing models and safeguards to prevent off-contract expenditure and subsequent risks associated with worker quality.