Scope
Reference
Ops 2025-155
Description
Red Kite Community Housing is preparing to upgrade the analogue-based emergency community call alarm systems across up to 29 sheltered housing schemes. This project forms part of a critical digital transformation programme in response to the UK-wide switchover from analogue to digital networks by January 2027 and addresses the growing challenges of maintaining outdated infrastructure.
The current systems-comprising call points, lift alarms, fire panels, and door entry systems located in communal areas-are connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) via analogue phone lines. These systems are essential for resident safety and must be digitally enabled to ensure compliance and continuity.
We are seeking to engage with the market to explore solutions that:
• are fully compatible with UK digital telecare standards (e.g. BS 8521-2:2020);
• are ARC-compatible (Appello ARC or similar);
• offer phased and cost-effective upgrade paths;
• allow reuse of existing infrastructure where possible;
• support future-proofing through open protocols and scalable technology; and
• include clear provisions for maintenance and long-term support.
There are a total of around 388 communal alarm connections across the 29 schemes. No dispersed alarm units are in use.
Indicative Timeline:
• Q2 2025/26: Soft Market Testing
• Q3 2025/26: Tender Launch
• Q4 2025/26: Supplier Selection and Phased Implementation
• December 2026: Contract Completion Target
Total value (estimated)
- £650,000 excluding VAT
- £780,000 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 6 April 2026 to 31 December 2026
- 8 months, 25 days
Main procurement category
Works
CPV classifications
- 35121700 - Alarm systems
- 45312000 - Alarm system and antenna installation work
- 45310000 - Electrical installation work
Contract locations
- UKJ1 - Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire
Engagement
Engagement deadline
18 August 2025
Engagement process description
Suppliers who wish to participate in this market engagement are invited to respond with outline proposals, capability statements, and suggested approaches that meet the broad requirements outlined the document attached to this Preliminary Market Engagement Notice. This soft market testing is intended to inform Red Kite's procurement strategy and will NOT form part of any formal tender evaluation.
Please complete (& return) the attached form in the format provided.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
14 November 2025
Contracting authority
Red Kite Community Housing Ltd
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQNL-4784-QYHP
Windsor Court
High Wycombe
HP11 1BB
United Kingdom
Contact name: Procurement Team
Telephone: +44 1494476100
Email: procurement@redkitehousing.org.uk
Website: http://www.redkitehousing.org.uk
Region: UKJ13 - Buckinghamshire CC
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government