The Healthcare team at leading Manchester law firm George Davies has been involved in LIFT (Local Investment Finance Trust) since 2002, acting for both PCTs and GPs.
Associate Jennifer Lewis comments “It has been great to see investment into often deprived areas; GP Practices moving from run-down premises into brand new purpose built facilities and partnerships working between the many public sector bodies involved.
Overall we have already acted for over 50 GP and Dental practices moving into LIFT and this is on-going despite the LIFT scheme winding down. This year we have a further 12 instructions from GP practices moving into LIFT across the North West. We have acted for GPs in most North West PCT areas including Oldham, Manchester, Halton & St Helens, Warrington, Bury, and Bolton. We continue to act for both Salford and Trafford PCTs providing on-going advice in respect of the management of their LIFT buildings. We pride ourselves on maintaining good working relationships with all parties so as to ensure a smooth process and are pleased to be recommended to GPs by PCTs on a regular basis.”
Consider the risks
The firm has always advised Practices who are considering a move to new premises to consider all the risks. There are risks in moving but there are also risks in staying put particularly in premises that are rundown, costly and no longer fit for purpose. In this ever-changing world of the modern NHS this advice has never been more timely. There are risks of course in moving and uncertainty about the future but with CQC inspections around the corner putting off a move may not be a valid option.
So as LIFT winds down what other options are available to GPs?
Many GP practices are now considering other options in respect of developing new premises. 3PD is not a new route but still popular and developers are still progressing these projects. Pharmacies are increasingly taking extra space in order to have a Practice on board and terms can be very reasonable due to the benefit to the Pharmacy. In addition GPs are also buying land and carrying out their own developments – there are risks involved and it will be time consuming but the benefits if successful could be high particularly where you have space for a pharmacy in the building.
In all of these potential scenarios it is key to be aware of the risks involved. While it is not possible to completely eliminate risk having the benefit of advisors with experience of a wide range of developments whether LIFT, 3PD or GP/Pharmacy led is invaluable.
For further details of how the George Davies Healthcare team can assist your practice please contact
Jennifer Lewis on 0161 234 8851.
