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UK's Best Workplaces in Tech™ 2026
Hannah Granshaw
24 September 2026
UK’s Best Workplaces for Development™ 2026
We’re proud to announce that SCFH has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Development™ 2026, ranking 21st in the small business category.This recognition from Great Place To Work® highlights organisations that make employee development a key part of their culture, creating environments where people are encouraged to learn, grow and progress in ways that work for them.At SCFH, we believe that when people are supported to develop both personally and professionally, everyone benefits. Whether it’s through structured learning opportunities, mentoring, leadership development or simply giving people the trust and autonomy to grow in their roles, development is something we continuously invest in across the business.Being included on this prestigious list is a reflection of the culture we’ve built together, one where people feel empowered to challenge themselves, share knowledge and shape their own career journey.To determine the UK’s Best Workplaces for Development™, Great Place To Work® analysed anonymous employee feedback alongside company culture, leadership and development practices. Only organisations achieving the highest scores were recognised.This latest recognition adds to an exciting run of achievements for SCFH with Great Place To Work®, following our inclusion in the UK’s Best Workplaces™ 2026 list earlier this year.We’re incredibly proud of this achievement and grateful to our brilliant team for helping make SCFH such a great place to work.
Hannah Granshaw
26 May 2026
Welcome to Paul Manvell
We’re delighted to welcome Paul Manvell to SCFH as Partner. With extensive experience in healthcare transformation and digital estates, Paul brings deep expertise and a passion for using technology to improve outcomes for patients, staff and communities.We caught up with Paul to learn more about what drew him to SCFH, the trends transforming shaping the future of digital health, and what continues to inspire him both professionally and personally.Hi Paul, What excites you most about joining SCFH?What stands out to me most is the people, the energy and the sense of purpose that runs through the business.SCFH has built an exceptional team of talented individuals who are deeply committed to making a difference. The opportunity to work alongside such experienced colleagues, contribute to exciting and meaningful projects and support forward-thinking clients across healthcare is incredibly motivating.In your view, what differentiates SCFH in the market?Without question, it’s our people and our culture.SCFH combines deep sector expertise with a genuine commitment to delivering outcomes that matter. There is a shared determination to go above and beyond for our clients because everyone understands that the work we do ultimately contributes to better patient care.That sense of purpose, combined with a highly collaborative and supportive culture, is what truly sets SCFH apart.What’s one thing you’d like to challenge in the digital health industry?The pace of digital adoption.Healthcare often moves more slowly than it needs to, despite the enormous opportunities that technology presents. During COVID-19, we saw what was possible when urgency aligned with ambition. New digital tools and ways of working were adopted at unprecedented speed.While not every decision was perfect, that period demonstrated that healthcare systems can move quickly when there is a clear focus on improving care. There is a huge opportunity to apply those lessons more consistently across the industry.Which innovations are you watching most closely right now?As my focus at SCFH will be supporting our Digital Estates practice, I’m particularly interested in the technologies that are enabling the NHS Intelligent Hospital vision.The concept of a fully connected healthcare estate, where buildings, infrastructure and clinical systems work together to enhance experiences for patients, staff and visitors, is incredibly exciting.Technologies such as IoT sensors, digital twins, intelligent energy systems and AI-powered building management platforms have the potential to transform healthcare environments, making them smarter, more efficient and more responsive.Where do you see the biggest opportunities for innovation in digital health?Many of the areas SCFH is working in today will play a central role in transforming how the NHS delivers care over the coming years.Genomic sequencing, smart estates, wearable devices integrated with health records, AI-driven diagnostics and advanced robotics all have the potential to transform how care is delivered.What excites me most is the convergence of these technologies and the opportunity to create more personalised, predictive and efficient healthcare systems.What’s one piece of advice that has stayed with you throughout your career?Give everyone in your organisation a voice. Great ideas can come from anywhere, and creating an environment where people feel heard leads to better decisions, stronger teams and more innovative outcomes.Outside of work, what are you enjoying at the moment?I’m currently focused on rebuilding my health and fitness after recovering from a serious illness.Last week, I completed my first Parkrun since my illness, which felt like a significant milestone. I’ve also developed a growing interest in nutrition and gut health, and I’ve been making changes to my diet to support my long-term wellbeing.That journey has given me a renewed appreciation for health, resilience and the importance of continuous improvement, both personally and professionally.We’re thrilled to have Paul on board and look forward to the experience, insight and energy he brings to our work with clients across the health sector. Welcome to the team, Paul.
Hannah Granshaw
18 May 2026
Taking Action this Mental Health Awareness Week
At SCFH, we pride ourselves on being a people-first business. Mental Health Awareness Week is a reminder that this is not just something we say, it's something we all need to actively live.And while it sounds like a cliché, it's true. A happy, supported workforce is a productive one. In healthcare, that matters even more. The NHS focus on prevention over cure applies just as much to mental health as it does to physical health.In fast-paced digital environments, where people are constantly connected, it can be easy to overlook the importance of switching off, checking in and creating space to recharge.We're proud of the culture we've built at SCFH, and our awards reflect that. But culture is not defined by recognition alone, it's shaped by everyday actions.Take action for yourselfGood mental health is built on small, consistent actions.For me, it's getting outside, exercising and stepping away from the noise. That reset makes a huge difference.For everyone, it will look different. It might be sleep, taking breaks, connecting with others or simply checking in with how you are feeling.Whether it’s stepping away from your screen, taking a short walk or creating space to properly switch off, small actions can make a real difference.Find what works for you and make it part of your routine.For a few quick ideas to help reset and recharge during the working day, our Take a Moment Guide includes simple, practical actions that can help support wellbeing, even on busy days.You can view the guide here: Take a MomentTake action for someone elseWe spend a huge amount of our lives at work, so it has to be a place that supports good mental health.Are we creating an environment where people feel safe to speak up?Do we know the difference between healthy challenge and too much pressure?Do we listen when someone says they are struggling?Sometimes action is simple. Check in properly. Listen carefully. Give people space when they need it. That is how supportive cultures are built.Take action for all of usAwareness and advocacy matter, but they're only part of the picture. We all have a role in educating ourselves, reducing stigma and creating the right environment. Small actions, repeated by many people, create real change.Bringing people together like this really matters. Being in the same room, having proper conversations, sharing ideas and checking in with each other can make a real difference to wellbeing.Connection matters, especially in modern working environments where so much communication happens through screens. Those conversations over lunch, the informal check-ins and the time spent together all help build a stronger, more supportive environment.Every action countsThis week is a reminder that every action counts.Whether it's looking after yourself, supporting someone else or simply starting a conversation, small actions can have a lasting impact.This week, take one action. Check in with a colleague. Take a proper break. Go for a walk. Start a conversation.At SCFH, we're committed to continuing to build an environment where people feel supported, valued and able to thrive.About AdamAdam Libbey is the COO and an experienced people and change practitioner whose career spans the Army, Big 4 consulting, and a growing advisory environment. Across these settings, he has developed a strong understanding of how people respond to challenge, how organisations adapt and how culture can enable or block transformation. He brings a calm, practical and people‑centred approach to helping teams navigate change and deliver meaningful progress.SCFH. A modern approach to health consulting.We combine strategic advisory with hands-on delivery, across data, digital and technology, helping health, life sciences and public sector organsisations improve outcomes, productivity and long-term value. Our diverse team brings together deep industry expertise, innovative thinking and a shared commitment to delivering outstanding results for our partners.
Adam Libbey
11 May 2026
GCA Digital Outcomes and Specialists 7 (DOS 7)
We’re proud to share another important milestone for SCFH, having been named as a supplier on Government Commercial Agency’s (GCA) Digital Outcomes and Specialists 7 (DOS 7) Framework.This latest achievement strengthens our position as a trusted strategic consulting partner to and for the NHS, ensuring our customers can continue to procure our services compliantly and with confidence.A step forward for procurementGovernment Commercial Agency (GCA) is the UK’s central commercial and procurement organisation, connecting public and private sectors to achieve the best outcomes for the UK and its citizens. GCA uses its commercial expertise to create a simpler procurement experience that redirects valuable resources into essential public services – creating value for the nation. DOS7 marks a significant evolution in GCA’s procurement landscape, bringing together the previous DOS6 and Digital Specialists and Programmes (DSP) frameworks into one streamlined agreement.By combining project-based outcomes, larger-scale delivery partnerships, and specialist resource requirements under a single framework, DOS 7 creates a simpler and more efficient route to market for buyers. This reduces the complexity organisations previously faced when navigating separate agreements, making procurement faster, clearer and more accessible.Strengthening our impactBeing appointed to DOS 7 reinforces our ability to support the NHS and public sector organisations in designing, building and improving digital, data and technology services that deliver meaningful outcomes.What this means in practiceThe DOS7 framework provides a compliant and efficient route for public sector organisations to access specialist digital support, whether delivering defined projects, enabling transformation programmes, or bringing in targeted expertise.SCFH has been awarded a place across all three lots:Lot 1 – Digital Outcomes: Delivery of defined digital services and outcomesLot 2 – Capability and Delivery Partners: Long-term, multi-disciplinary transformation supportLot 3 – Digital Specialists: Flexible access to individual expertsOur focus remains clearAs we build on this momentum, our focus remains clear:Continuing to invest in the right capabilities, people and partnershipsRecognising the importance of frameworks that enable compliant NHS procurementMaking it easier for NHS organisations to access specialist supportDelivering impactful digital, data and technology outcomesLooking aheadThis appointment reflects SCFH’s growing role in supporting the NHS and wider public sector organisations to deliver modern, user-centred services. It also reinforces our commitment to working in line with government standards and best practice across delivery, design and technology.We’re excited to build on this momentum, deepen trusted partnerships, and continue supporting NHS organisations to deliver meaningful change.Notes to EditorGCA is an executive agency of the Cabinet Office, supporting the public sector to achieve maximum commercial value when procuring common goods and services. To find out more about GCA, visit www.gca.gov.ukFollow us on X: @gov_procurementFollow us on LinkedIn
Hannah Granshaw
16 April 2026
Welcome to Andy Brett
We’re delighted to welcome Andy Brett to SCFH as a Partner, as we grow our leadership team and expand our work in digital health. We caught up with Andy to talk about his career to date, his new role and his thoughts on digital health. Discover more about his journey and the depth of experience he brings to SCFH. Andy. Tell us about your career journey? I began my career as a software engineer, developing monitoring and control systems for fibre optic submarine telecommunications cables – critical infrastructure connecting countries across the globe. That early experience exposed me to complex, high-reliability systems and gave me the opportunity to work internationally, delivering installations and training across multiple countries. I later moved into solution architecture and delivery, leading the design, integration and implementation of large-scale call centre platforms, including telephony and CRM systems, across financial services, automotive and telecommunications sectors. This broadened my experience of delivering customer-centric systems at scale, working across Europe and the US. My transition into healthcare came through the National Programme for IT, where I spent five years contributing to one of the NHS’ most ambitious digital transformation programmes. That marked a turning point in my career, and I’ve now spent over 20 years working across health and care. Since then, I’ve worked both within organisations and as an advisor, providing strategic, architectural and technical leadership to a wide range of health and care providers in the UK and internationally. This has included major digital transformation initiatives and several international new hospital programmes, most recently contributing to the NHS New Hospital Programme, where the focus is on embedding digital at the heart of future healthcare delivery. What’s a project you’re especially proud of and why? My ongoing involvement in large-scale new hospital programmes stands out, particularly through the NHS New Hospital Programme. What makes this work so meaningful is the opportunity to embed digital from the ground up, not as an add-on but as a core part of how hospitals are designed and operated. This involves working across clinical, operational and estates teams to define requirements, align stakeholders, and ensure digital infrastructure and data capabilities are considered from the outset. These programmes are inherently complex, bringing together multiple organisations, disciplines and priorities. Helping to navigate that complexity and translate strategic ambition into something practical and deliverable is particularly rewarding. Essentially putting digital at the heart of future healthcare, creating environments that are better connected, more efficient and better equipped to support both patients and staff. What are you most looking forward to about joining SCFH as a Partner? Having known several members of the team for many years, I’ve seen first-hand the impact SCFH is making across the health and care sector. I’m excited to build on those strong foundations, scaling the work, shaping new opportunities, and delivering meaningful outcomes for clients. What sets SCFH apart? It comes down to the people. There’s a clear, shared commitment to client engagement and delivery, not just getting the job done, but achieving the best possible outcomes for the organisations we work with. What are the biggest opportunities for innovation in digital health? One of the biggest opportunities is still getting the fundamentals right, particularly integration, interoperability and effective data management. Too often, organisations attempt to innovate on top of fragmented systems and inconsistent data, which limits the impact of new technologies. Treating data as a true strategic asset, with the right governance and standards is a critical foundation, and one that many organisations are still developing. At the same time, there is significant opportunity to apply AI in ways that support, rather than replace, day-to-day activities. While much of the focus is on clinical use cases, there is growing potential in operational areas such as estates and facilities management, especially as healthcare environments become more connected and intelligent. Ultimately, the real opportunity lies in creating joined-up, data-driven environments where technology enhances both care delivery and how healthcare organisations operate behind the scenes. What’s a trend people aren’t talking about enough? One of the most overlooked challenges is the gap between digital ambition and the reality of delivery. Many organisations have clear strategies and bold aspirations, but lack the capability, capacity or maturity to translate them into sustained change. This gap is even more evident beyond core clinical systems, particularly in estates and facilities management, where digital maturity is often lower but the opportunity is significant. As healthcare environments become more connected and data-rich, the built environment itself is generating valuable operational data, yet many organisations aren’t set up to fully utilise it. Closing this gap, through skills, governance and a more integrated approach to data, is where much of the real opportunity lies. Organisations that can bridge ambition with practical delivery across both clinical and operational domains will see the greatest impact. What motivates you on a tough day? Taking a step back and focusing on the bigger picture helps. Breaking challenges down into manageable steps with the team, and finding small wins along the way, keeps momentum going. In healthcare, even small improvements can make a meaningful difference to patients, staff and services. What’s a skill you’d love to master outside of work? Having worked internationally over the years, I’d love to become fluent in another language. What’s your go-to-way to unwind after a busy week? In a word: exercise. I do resistance training three times a week, complemented by swimming and cycling at the weekend (weather permitting). Rest and recovery days are just as important too.
Hannah Granshaw
7 April 2026
Quieter Hospitals, Smarter Care
SCFH is delighted to share that we’ve been selected to present at the European Healthcare Design Congress 2026, one of the world’s leading forums for healthcare planning, design and innovation. Our presentation, “Quiet hospitals, smarter care,” has been accepted into the Science, Technology and Digital Transformation stream, which explores how digital innovation, artificial intelligence and smart infrastructure are reshaping healthcare environments. Our work highlights how acoustic environments and intelligent systems can improve clinical outcomes, support staff wellbeing and drive operational efficiency, reflecting our continued leadership at the intersection of technology, design and patient-centred care. Taking place in London from 15–17 June 2026, EHD2026 will convene an international community of healthcare leaders, designers, researchers and policymakers under the theme “Agile not fragile: Designing for resilience, renewal and regeneration.” The Congress will examine how healthcare systems and infrastructure can adapt to rapid technological change, workforce pressures and growing environmental challenges. This year’s programme features a rich mix of keynote plenaries and specialist streams, covering topics such as digital transformation, smart hospitals, climate resilience and new models of care. This year also marks a significant milestone as the Congress moves to its new home at the QEII Centre in Westminster, welcoming a global audience both in person and through a fully integrated digital platform.“We’re delighted to be selected for the European Healthcare Design Congress 2026. Our presentation, ‘Quiet hospitals, smarter care,’ explores how thoughtful acoustic design, combined with intelligent digital systems, can transform healthcare environments. By reducing noise and enhancing sensory conditions, we can improve patient recovery, support staff wellbeing and enable more effective, efficient care. We’re looking forward to sharing our insights and learning from peers across the global healthcare design community.” Taja QuigleyThe European Healthcare Design Congress remains a vital platform for sharing research, best practice and innovation, bringing together multidisciplinary expertise to shape the future of health systems worldwide. For more information about the congress, visit www.europeanhealthcaredesign.eu SCFH. A modern approach to health consulting. We combine strategic advisory with hands-on delivery, across data, digital and technology, helping health, life sciences and public sector organsisations improve outcomes, productivity and long-term value. Our diverse team brings together deep industry expertise, innovative thinking and a shared commitment to delivering outstanding results for our partners.
Hannah Granshaw
23 March 2026
Living Our Social Value
Whilst recently reviewing a tender response, I paused on our Social Value section and felt genuinely proud. Everything written there reflected what we actually do. It wasn’t a set of promises or a compliance exercise. It was a reflection of how we show up every day. Social value at SCFH is lived, not performed. Across the business, our teams contribute to wellbeing, inclusion, environmental responsibility and community impact in ways that are structured, thoughtful and meaningful. It is an approach that continues to mature and strengthen. Turning Commitment Into Action Last week, Taja and I visited HMP Bronzefield, Europe’s largest women’s prison and only a short distance from our Surrey office. The visit formed part of our pledge through the New Futures Network, which exists to connect employers with prisons and increase employment opportunities for prison leavers.The experience was humbling and eye opening. The women we met were confident, prepared and full of potential. Caroline Atkins, the Employment Broker for the London Prison Group, captured the essence of this work perfectly when she said:Partnerships like this genuinely change lives and open doors for women as they move closer to release. Caroline AtkinsHer words are a powerful reminder that people are never defined by their circumstances and that true diversity, when embraced, becomes a real strength. Celebrating Women, Championing Inclusion The visit also coincided with International Women’s Day over the weekend, which reminded us of the inspiring women we work with every day and why we remain committed champions for women in technology and healthcare. Their leadership and resilience help shape our culture and our impact. Creating a Culture Where People Thrive This week is Neurodiversity Awareness Week. More than 20 percent of our permanent team are neurodiverse at SCFH, reflecting society as a whole. What makes this even more meaningful is that it has happened naturally, without formal programmes or recruitment targets. It is the result of a culture built on psychological safety, trust and flexibility. Inclusion here is not an initiative; it is the environment we deliberately and consistently create. Our Wider Social Value Commitments Our approach to social value runs throughout the organisation. We have committed to the Armed Forces Covenant and hold the Bronze Award in recognition of our support for veterans and reservists. We maintain environmental responsibility as part of our everyday operations. Our people intuitively make sustainable choices, which means meeting standards such as ISO 14001 becomes a natural and embedded part of our behaviour. We continue to invest in community engagement, volunteering, mental health and wellbeing, and digital inclusion work. These efforts are grounded in partnership and purpose, designed to create local impact that is visible and lasting. Why This Matters The past week has reinforced that social value at SCFH is not something we write in tender documents. It is reflected in our actions, our relationships and our culture. Whether through engagement with prisons, supporting women in tech, celebrating neurodiversity, maintaining environmental stewardship or giving back to our communities, we are building a business that leads with humanity and purpose. Social value here isn’t a statement. It is who we are. About Adam Libbey Adam Libbey is the Director of Operations and an experienced people and change practitioner whose career spans the Army, Big 4 consulting, and a growing advisory environment. Across these settings, he has developed a strong understanding of how people respond to challenge, how organisations adapt and how culture can enable or block transformation. He brings a calm, practical and people‑centred approach to helping teams navigate change and deliver meaningful progress. SCFH. A modern approach to health consulting. We combine strategic advisory with hands-on delivery, across data, digital and technology, helping health, life sciences and public sector organsisations improve outcomes, productivity and long-term value. Our diverse team brings together deep industry expertise, innovative thinking and a shared commitment to delivering outstanding results for our partners.
Adam Libbey
20 March 2026
UK’s Best Workplaces™ 2026
We’re proud to announce that we’ve been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces™ 2026 by Great Place To Work® UK, ranking 18 among the top 100 organisations in the Small Companies category. Our ranking was revealed at the prestigious UK’s Best Workplaces Awards ceremony at Grosvenor House in the heart of London. Widely regarded as the ‘gold standard’ of employer awards, the list recognises organisations that have built exceptional workplace cultures grounded in trust, inclusion and strong people practices. Being recognised in the Small Companies category is a moment of great pride for SmartCo Future Health and reflects our ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive and high-performing environment where our people can thrive.“Our inclusion in the UK’s Best Workplaces List is a testament to the culture our people help build every day, a culture grounded in respect, trust and purpose. We take pride in our work, put our customers first, celebrate achievements and strive for excellence in everything we do. Most importantly, we succeed because we collaborate as one team.” Adam Libbey, Director of Operations, SCFHThe UK’s Best Workplaces List is compiled using a rigorous and independent methodology. Great Place To Work analyses confidential employee survey feedback measuring levels of trust, employees’ ability to reach their full potential, and experiences of leadership, innovation and company values across all roles and levels within the organisation. These insights are then benchmarked against culture and employee value propositions to identify organisations that consistently deliver exceptional employee experiences. “At Great Place To Work our mission is to help every workplace become a great place to work for all. We wholeheartedly endorse that what’s ‘better for business’ aligns with what’s ‘better for people,’ ultimately contributing to a better world For All™” Benedict Gautrey, Managing Director, Great Place To Work UK.We’re incredibly proud of this recognition and remain committed to continuously strengthening our culture and employee experience. Thank you to the entire team for making SCFH a great place to work.
Hannah Granshaw
13 March 2026
The UK – Norway Policy Playbook
SCFH is pleased to share our newly published UK – Norway Policy Playbook, capturing key insights from the UK – Norway Smart Hospitals and Intelligent Health Systems Roundtable. Convened with Team Norway, DNVI and Sonitor, the event brought together senior leaders from healthcare, digital transformation, clinical operations and policy to explore how intelligent hospital systems can improve patient safety and clinical performance. Health systems in the UK, Norway and other advanced economies face growing pressures, rising demand, workforce shortages, increasing clinical complexity and fiscal constraints. The playbook highlights that incremental reform is no longer sufficient; instead, system-wide redesign and intelligence embedded from the outset are needed.“The UK – Norway Policy Playbook articulates a strategic vision for the next generation of smart and intelligent hospitals. Informed by senior leadership dialogue and SCFH sustained investment in understanding cross border and system-wide healthcare challenges, it outlines how embedding intelligence across workforce, pathways and digital infrastructure can enable more anticipatory, outcomes-driven care. Crucially, it establishes the foundations for stronger patient safety and more resilient, sustainable health systems for years to come.” Taja Quigley, Partner, SCFHKey themes from the roundtable include:Safety by design: Embedding safety into hospital buildings, digital systems and operating models.Intelligence in the system: Aligning people, processes and technology through standardisation and governance.Platforms, not projects: Designing systems that can adapt and scale innovations across the health system.Interoperability: Seamless data and information flows across community, acute, and digital care pathways.Behaviour follows system design: Creating environments where the safest ways of working are also the easiest.The playbook makes clear that intelligent hospitals are defined not by technology volume, but by how effectively they support safer, more integrated care. Hospitals must function as part of a wider health ecosystem, supporting care closer to home while reserving hospital capacity for patients who most need specialist intervention. SCFH will continue to facilitate cross-system dialogue, shared learning, and collaboration to accelerate the development of safe, intelligent, and sustainable hospital systems.
Hannah Granshaw
11 March 2026