Shared Lives

Cornwall Council is seeking providers to join a new Shared Lives framework for the delivery of adult placement services across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The framework will support the continued provision of long-term and short-break Shared Lives placements, primarily for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism, while also supporting older people and individuals with mental health conditions.

Cornwall currently operates the largest Shared Lives service in the South West, supporting around 115 people through long-term placements and a further 60 people through regular short-break arrangements. Under the model, individuals live within the home of an approved Shared Lives Carer, receiving personalised care and support in a family-based environment.

Contract Information

Buyer – Cornwall Council

Deadline – 4 September 2026, 5:00pm

Contract Value – Estimated £18,000,000 excluding VAT (£19,000,000 including VAT)

Delivery Length – 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2031

Tender Link – Click here

Service Overview

The framework will establish approved providers capable of delivering Shared Lives services across Cornwall.

Key features include:

• Long-term Shared Lives placements.
• Short-break Shared Lives support.
• Services primarily for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.
• Support for older people and individuals with mental health conditions where appropriate.
• Person-centred care delivered within the homes of approved Shared Lives Carers.

Individual placements will be awarded through direct award, based on the availability of suitable Shared Lives Carers and the best match for the individual requiring support.

Framework Information

The framework will:

• Appoint a maximum of 10 suppliers.
• Operate as an open framework.
• Allow direct award of placements without further competition.
• Be available for use by local authorities across the South West of England.
• Apply no supplier framework fees.

Evaluation Criteria

Tenders will be assessed using:

• Quality (Method Statements) – 70%
• Price (Acceptance of the fee methodology and defined fee rates) – 20%
• Social Value – 10%

Regulatory Requirements

Providers will be expected to:

• Hold appropriate Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration.
• Demonstrate experience through relevant contracts as part of the conditions of participation.

Procurement Information

The procurement is being undertaken using an Open Procedure under the Light Touch regime.

The framework represents a significant investment in community-based adult social care, supporting people to live in family environments that promote independence, inclusion and personalised care while expanding access to Shared Lives services across the South West.

Never Miss a Care Sector Opportunity

From contract opportunities and framework launches to sector news and procurement updates, The Daily Round delivers daily insights designed for care providers, suppliers, and sector leaders.

Sign up to The Daily Round Daily Bulletin to receive the latest opportunities and healthcare procurement news directly to your inbox.

If you want to advertise your opportunity, please contact Jamie Peacock, Tender Specialist at editorial@dailyround.news