Flexible Framework Agreement for the provision of Home and Community based Short Breaks for Children and Young People with Disabilities

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is inviting providers to apply to join its Flexible Framework Agreement for the provision of home and community-based short breaks for children and young people with disabilities.

According to the procurement documents, this is the third opening of the Flexible Framework, which was originally established under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. The current opportunity relates to Lots 2 to 6, as Lot 1 has already been awarded. The framework supports the Council’s statutory duty under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989 to provide a range of short break services for children and young people with disabilities, helping to enhance independence while supporting families and carers.
The specification explains that short break services form part of a wider offer of universal, targeted and specialist support. Specialist services are available following a Child in Need Assessment where a significant level of need has been identified.

Lots Available

Applications are invited for the following framework lots:

• Lot 2 – Provision of holiday support
• Lot 3 – Provision of personal care within the child’s home
• Lot 4 – Provision of day opportunities for children aged 16+
• Lot 5 – Provision of bespoke packages of care
• Lot 6 – Provision of outreach services where the primary provider cannot meet demand, assessed need or family choice

For each lot, referrals will be made through the Disabled Children’s Team following a Child in Need Assessment. Multiple providers may be appointed, with placements based on family choice, provider availability and assessed suitability.

Contract Information

Buyer – Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Deadline – 27 July 2026, 12:00 noon

Contract Value – £1,580,000

Delivery Length – 1 September 2026 – 1 April 2027, with the option to extend for up to a further 24 months

Tender Link – Click here

Evaluation Criteria

The procurement will be evaluated using:

• Quality / Technical – 100%

Regulatory Requirements

Providers will be expected to meet a range of regulatory and compliance requirements, including:

• Registration with the Central Digital Platform (CDP)
• Compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) requirements where applicable
• Compliance with Ofsted requirements where applicable
• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) compliance
• Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) registration
• Appropriate safeguarding, GDPR, health and safety, equality and information governance policies
• Maintenance of appropriate insurance arrangements throughout the contract period.

The opportunity reflects Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s continued investment in flexible short break services that support children and young people with disabilities, promote independence and wellbeing, and provide practical support to families through a range of home and community-based provision.

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