Scope
Reference
PS/2025/066
Description
Thurrock Council seeks to commission an 18–25 Autism Support Service that enables young people with Autism to develop independent living skills, improve health and wellbeing, participate in their communities, and prepare for education or employment.
The Programme will support a small cohort of young people with Autism who require intensive, personalised assistance, delivered through a blend of structured learning, community‑based activities, and family engagement.
The appointed Provider will deliver a high‑quality, person‑centred service aligned with national and local priorities, helping participants build their skills across four core outcome areas: Independent Living; Health and Wellbeing; Community Participation / Inclusion (Friends and Relationships); and Education, Employment and Vocational Opportunities.
Total value (estimated)
- £8,086,400 excluding VAT
- £9,704,160 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 September 2026 to 31 August 2030
- Possible extension to 31 August 2032
- 6 years
Description of possible extension:
The Council may extend the contract for up to two additional years, exercised in one or more extension periods at the Council’s discretion.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 85300000 - Social work and related services
- 85310000 - Social work services
- 85320000 - Social services
- 98000000 - Other community, social and personal services
Submission
Enquiry deadline
9 April 2026, 5:00pm
Tender submission deadline
20 April 2026, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders must be submitted through the In-Tend portal:
https://in-tendhost.co.uk/thurrockcouncil/aspx/ProjectManage/1672
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
29 May 2026
Recurring procurement
Publication date of next tender notice (estimated): 1 March 2032
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Price | 30% |
| Service Delivery Model | Quality | 16% |
| Parent / Carer Engagement | Quality | 16% |
| Staffing and Training | Quality | 10% |
| Partnership Working | Quality | 10% |
| Performance Monitoring and Outcomes | Quality | 6% |
| Social Value | Quality | 6% |
| Video Presentation | Quality | 6% |
Other information
Applicable trade agreements
- Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
Thurrock Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PMHW-1723-WDCD
New Road
Grays
RM17 6SL
United Kingdom
Email: Procurement@thurrock.gov.uk
Website: http://www.thurrock.gov.uk
Region: UKH32 - Thurrock
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government