Scope
Reference
OPEN202620
Description
This invitation to tender (ITT) invites bidders to develop a Regional Childcare Strategy for the North East Combined Authority region as part of a wider programme of work delivering against the North East child poverty action plan.
This ITT will comprise one lot for the whole of the region covering the local authority areas of County Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside Northumberland, South Tyneside, and Sunderland.
The purpose of this commission for a Regional Childcare Strategy is to assimilate a robust, evidence-based strategy, framework for action and recommendations to drive forward the work of the North East Combined Authority, its constituent authorities and other regional partners and stakeholders.
The commissioned organisation and its partners will be responsible for ensuring that the work represents the diverse experiences from across the region and system; recognising local nuance and focussing on the experiences of low-income families and the priority groups identified in the regional child poverty action plan (Annexe 1).
We are seeking a partnership approach to this work, providing diverse perspectives on this complex challenge. The approach will be evidence-led with the views and needs of parents/carers and communities at its heart. The work will engage with professionals and other local, regional, and national stakeholders.
Deadline for clarification questions is 16th January 2026 5pm.
Total value (estimated)
- £100,000 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 February 2026 to 31 August 2026
- 6 months, 31 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 79419000 - Evaluation consultancy services
Contract locations
- UKC14 - Durham CC
- UKC2 - Northumberland and Tyne and Wear
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
16 January 2026, 5:00pm
Tender submission deadline
23 January 2026, 5:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders should be submitted via the OPEN portal.
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Award criteria
80% Quality
20% Price
Procedure
Procedure type
Below threshold - open competition
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
North East Combined Authority
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PJMR-6594-BRGH
The Lumen, St James' Boulevard
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE4 5BZ
United Kingdom
Region: UKC22 - Tyneside
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government