W5067 SHORT BREAKS FOR ADULTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES, AUTISTIC PEOPLE AND PEOPLE NEEDING PHYSICAL SUPPORT

To establish a pilot scheme to provide a 4-5 bed building-based service in the community with a flexible system allowing beds to be pre-booked for short breaks for adults with learning disabilities, autistic people and people needing physical support. The aim of the pilot is to inform the second phase of the project to provide short break accommodation.

It is envisaged the pilot scheme will be an initial 12-month contract plus 12 months following ongoing monitoring and reviewing, with a strong focus on co-production throughout the initial 12-month operational phase. As part of the wider project we will be enquiring about your capacity to support emergency respite provision and your ideas around what that support could look like and what community short breaks options could be introduced.

Please note that indicative contract start and end dates are included within this notice to meet procurement publication requirements. These dates are provided for guidance only.

The final contract model, structure, and duration have not yet been determined. Through this pre‑market engagement exercise, the Council is seeking feedback from providers on viable contract lengths, potential extension options, and the commercial conditions that would support a sustainable and deliverable service.

The purpose of this engagement is to encourage providers to share insight, suggestions, and innovative approaches that could shape the final contract design. All feedback received will help the Council determine the most appropriate contract model and duration before progressing to formal procurement.