Scope
Reference
SWAST-5066-F
Description
Early Market Engagement
Meet the Buyer Event: Monday, 3rd November 2025
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) is seeking early engagement with the market regarding the future provision of the ambulance boat service for the Isles of Scilly.
The current vessel, which has served the islands for over 25 years, is approaching the end of its operational life. Maintenance costs are rising, and sourcing replacement parts is increasingly difficult. To ensure the continuity of a safe, reliable, and sustainable ambulance service for the Isles of Scilly, SWASFT is exploring options for either:
The procurement of a new replacement vessel, or
The engagement of a service provider to deliver an alternative solution that meets the operational and clinical needs of the community.
We are open to innovative proposals and welcome input from suppliers with relevant expertise in marine transport, emergency services, and remote healthcare logistics.
Meet the Buyer Event Details
Date: Monday, 3rd November 2025
Format: Virtual and/or in-person (details to be confirmed)
Purpose: To engage with potential suppliers, share background information, and gather market insight ahead of formal procurement.
How to Register Interest
Suppliers interested in attending the Meet the Buyer event or contributing to the market engagement process should contact:
Lewis Wells
Senior Procurement Contract Manager
Email: lewis.wells@swast.nhs.uk
Please register your interest by Friday, 25th October 2025.
Total value (estimated)
- £1 excluding VAT
- £1.20 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2035
- 9 years
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 34114122 - Patient-transport vehicles
- 34144212 - Water-tender vehicles
Engagement
Engagement deadline
31 October 2025
Engagement process description
Meet the buyer event hosted by SWASFT.
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
31 January 2026
Contracting authority
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQXD-1311-BRXL
Westcountry House, Abbey Court, Eagle Way, Sowton Industrial Estate
Exeter
EX2 7HY
United Kingdom
Region: UKK43 - Devon CC
Organisation type: Public authority - central government