CP2632-25 Open Light Touch Framework for the Provision of Short Breaks for Disabled Children and Young People in Devon

Devon County Council is establishing an Open Light Touch Framework for the provision of short breaks for disabled children and young people across Devon.

The framework is designed to secure a diverse range of high-quality short break services that support disabled children and young people to access play, leisure and recreational opportunities, develop independence, spend time with friends and experience new activities. Short breaks may take place in the family home, within the community or in residential settings, and can range from a few hours to overnight or weekend stays during weekdays, evenings, weekends and school holidays.

The Council states that the framework will enable individual packages of support and block contracts to be awarded to approved framework suppliers through call-off arrangements.

Lots Available

Lot 1 – Targeted support and short breaks for children from birth up to 13 years

This lot covers targeted short break provision for disabled children up to the age of 13 who have been assessed as requiring targeted support. Services should provide structured, inclusive activities that promote social connection, confidence, early independence skills and positive experiences outside the family home.

Lot 2 – Targeted support and short breaks for older adolescents (ages 14–17 years)

This lot provides targeted short breaks for disabled young people aged 14 to 17, supporting independence, wellbeing and social inclusion while helping young people prepare for adulthood.

Lot 3 – Specialist provision and short breaks for children from birth up to 17 years

This lot covers specialist short breaks for children and young people with complex and multiple needs who require highly individualised support, including one-to-one support or enhanced staffing arrangements where required.

The Council intends to operate the framework as an open framework, with two entry points during the first year followed by one entry point every other year for the duration of the framework. Existing providers will automatically transfer to subsequent framework agreements unless they choose to submit a new bid or request not to be reappointed.

Contract Information

Buyer – Devon County Council

Deadline – 26 August 2026, 12:00pm

Contract Value – £44,000,000

Delivery Length – 3 November 2026 to 2 November 2031, with the option to extend for up to a further three years until 2 November 2034.

Tender Link – Click here

Framework Information

• Open Light Touch Framework.
• Unlimited number of suppliers may be appointed.
• Suppliers may bid for one or more lots.
• Individual placements and packages of work will be awarded through either further competition or direct call-off.
• The framework may only be used by Devon County Council.
• The Council cannot guarantee any volume or value of work awarded under the framework.

Evaluation Criteria

Tenders will be evaluated using the following criterion:

• Quality – 100%

Procurement Procedure

The procurement will be conducted through an Open Procedure under the Light Touch Regime.

The opportunity is particularly suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSEs).

The Council will also host an online tender launch event via Microsoft Teams on 28 July 2026 at 11:00am to familiarise bidders with the procurement documentation and process.

This framework represents a significant long-term opportunity for organisations delivering short breaks that promote independence, inclusion and positive experiences for disabled children and young people across Devon while providing valuable respite for parents and carers.

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