Dozens of West Sussex primary care jobs saved amid liquidation
Restructuring and insolvency specialist Leonard Curtis has helped save the jobs of 46 former members of staff at a GP federation providing services in West Sussex.
Arundel-based Innovations in Primary Care Ltd went into voluntary liquidation on November 8th.
The company, which worked with GP surgeries in the region, faced mounting challenges during the past 18 months due to changes in NHS budgets, limiting its ability to secure long-term contracts.
Although it delivered primary care services for years and expanded rapidly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the shift in contract terms and lack of new clients led to financial instability.
Following a review in September, the directors consulted David Smithson and Michael Fortune of Leonard Curtis.
The 46 jobs were transferred to another operator before the liquidation process, while a restructuring earlier this year supported the remaining 138 employees until October 1, when trading ceased.
Leonard Curtis director David Smithson said: “This outcome demonstrates the vital importance of early advice and proactive planning in preserving employment.
“By engaging early, Innovations in Primary Care was able to find alternative solutions that safeguarded a substantial number of roles.
“The company’s 51 GP shareholders recognised that the challenges posed by reduced NHS budgets were ultimately insurmountable but expressed appreciation for the collaborative approach that salvaged jobs in the transition.
“Leonard Curtis will continue to work closely with affected parties to ensure the best possible outcome.”
He cited the increase in employer National Insurance contributions announced in the Budget, from which GP practices, care homes and healthcare businesses are not exempt.
“Our advice is to seek support as soon as possible if the business is experiencing operational or financial challenges,” he added.
Leonard Curtis has 27 offices across the UK and Channel Islands and employs more than 300 staff.
