2.2  The handback process

In terms the handback period, the following flowchart illustrates the handback process through to the post handback period and identifies key actions flowing from a review of the contract documentation, through an option appraisal and decision-making phase to implementing an action plan, while ensuring a process of review as the project proceeds:

While the formal handback provisions in most contracts do not commence until eighteen months or two years before the end of contract, SFT's view is that preparation for handback needs to commence at least five years out and, in case of more complex facilities such as acute hospital contracts, between eight and ten years before the end of contract.