Scope
Description
The Adult Short Breaks Service is designed to provide respite care for adults with learning disabilities or profound and multiple learning disabilities. The service aims to support individuals by offering person-centered, outcome-focused care that empowers them to live a good life. The service will also provide their family carers with a break from their caring responsibilities.
The service may include both building-based and outreach support, allowing flexibility in how care is delivered. The service may also offer emergency placements when assessed as necessary. The Adult Short Breaks Service is expected to support a minimum of 170 people per year, operating 24/7 to ensure continuous support for those in need.
Total value (estimated)
- £10,391,040 excluding VAT
- £12,469,248 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2031
- Possible extension to 30 September 2034
- 8 years
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 85100000 - Health services
Contract locations
- UKJ14 - Oxfordshire
Engagement
Engagement deadline
21 November 2025
Engagement process description
Oxfordshire County Council is seeking views from potential providers on how best to deliver the Adults Short Break services. The Council is conducting a two-stage market engagement process to help shape the future service model:
Stage 1: Soft market testing via questionnaire.
Stage 2: A targeted virtual workshop, open to all providers who participated in Stage 1.
The workshop will provide an opportunity to explore key themes from the initial engagement, share insights, and discuss potential delivery models. Your input will be invaluable in informing the final specification and approach.
If Stage 1 participation is lower than anticipated, the Council reserves the right to expand Stage 2 invitations to additional providers to ensure a diverse and representative discussion. Further details, including the date and joining instructions, will be shared shortly.
If you are interested in sharing your views, please complete the provided questionnaire on the tender portal and return it by 21st November 2025.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
19 January 2026
Procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
Oxfordshire County Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PZNW-8281-MHNM
3rd Floor
Oxford
OX1 1ND
United Kingdom
Contact name: Nkose Stevenson
Email: nkose.stevenson@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Website: http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk
Region: UKJ14 - Oxfordshire
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government