{ "uri": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/api/1.0/ocdsRecordPackages/ocds-h6vhtk-078441", "publisher": { "name": "Cabinet Office", "scheme": "GB-GOR", "uid": "D2", "uri": "https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/cabinet-office" }, "publishedDate": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "license": "http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3/", "publicationPolicy": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/open-contracting", "version": "1.1", "extensions": [ "https://standard.open-contracting.org/profiles/eu/latest/en/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_amendment_rationale_classifications_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_budget_breakdown_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_contract_completion_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_documentation_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_pagination_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_suitability_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/portaledcahn/ocds_Links_extension/main/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/cabinetoffice/ocds_uk_extension/main/extension.json" ], "packages": [ "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/api/1.0/ocdsRecordPackages/ocds-h6vhtk-078441" ], "records": [ { "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-078441", "releases": [ { "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-078441", "id": "095436-2026", "tag": [ "planning" ], "date": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "initiationType": "tender", "planning": { "documents": [ { "id": "095436-2026", "documentType": "plannedProcurementNotice", "noticeType": "UK1", "description": "Pipeline notice on Find a Tender", "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/095436-2026", "datePublished": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "format": "text/html" } ] }, "parties": [ { "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority", "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "identifier": { "scheme": "GB-PPON", "id": "PXBN-3793-LCTQ" }, "address": { "streetAddress": "56 Oxford Street", "locality": "Manchester", "postalCode": "M1 6EU", "country": "GB", "countryName": "United Kingdom", "region": "UKD33" }, "contactPoint": { "email": "procurement@manchesterfire.gov.uk" }, "roles": [ "buyer" ], "details": { "classifications": [ { "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE", "id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment", "description": "Public authority - sub-central government" } ] } } ], "buyer": { "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority" }, "tender": { "id": "GMCA 2201", "legalBasis": { "id": "2023/54", "scheme": "UKPGA", "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents" }, "title": "GMCA 2201 NW Regional Children’s Services Contract ", "description": "North West Association of Directors of Children’s Services (NWADCS), representing the 24 North West local authorities, have a long track record of collaborative contracting for childrens services.\nUnder new arrangements hosted by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) NWADCS are introducing a new contract to allow the North West authorities a route to purchase services for children including; alternative provision, family assessment centres, foster care, residential, SEND schools and colleges, and supported accommodation.\nThe procurement exercise aims to establish an open framework designed to improve provider and local authority experience in relation to the purchasing of these services for children. Additional anticipated outcomes include\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nFollowing extensive pre-market engagement activity prior to the lead authority being identified the approach to contract development will focus on engagement with local authorities and providers and the experiences of children and young people using these services.", "items": [ { "id": "1", "additionalClassifications": [ { "scheme": "CPV", "id": "85300000", "description": "Social work and related services" } ], "deliveryAddresses": [ { "region": "UK", "country": "GB", "countryName": "United Kingdom" } ], "relatedLot": "1" } ], "value": { "amountGross": 16669991477, "amount": 13891659564, "currency": "GBP" }, "procurementMethodDetails": "Competitive flexible procedure", "mainProcurementCategory": "services", "specialRegime": [ "lightTouch" ], "aboveThreshold": true, "techniques": { "hasFrameworkAgreement": true }, "lots": [ { "id": "1", "suitability": { "sme": true, "vcse": true }, "contractPeriod": { "startDate": "2027-08-01T00:00:00Z", "endDate": "2035-07-30T23:59:59Z" }, "status": "planned" } ], "communication": { "futureNoticeDate": "2027-03-01T23:59:59Z" }, "status": "planned" }, "language": "en", "extensions": [ "https://standard.open-contracting.org/profiles/eu/latest/en/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_amendment_rationale_classifications_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_budget_breakdown_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_contract_completion_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_documentation_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_pagination_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_suitability_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/portaledcahn/ocds_Links_extension/main/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/cabinetoffice/ocds_uk_extension/main/extension.json" ] }, { "id": "095658-2026", "tag": [ "planning" ], "date": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "initiationType": "tender", "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-078441", "parties": [ { "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority", "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "identifier": { "scheme": "GB-PPON", "id": "PXBN-3793-LCTQ" }, "address": { "streetAddress": "56 Oxford Street", "locality": "Manchester", "postalCode": "M1 6EU", "country": "GB", "countryName": "United Kingdom", "region": "UKD33" }, "contactPoint": { "email": "procurement@manchesterfire.gov.uk" }, "roles": [ "buyer" ], "details": { "classifications": [ { "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE", "id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment", "description": "Public authority - sub-central government" } ] } } ], "buyer": { "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority" }, "planning": { "milestones": [ { "id": "engagement", "type": "engagement", "description": "Location: Various\nOrganisations with previous experience in delivering the following services to North West authorities or delivering these services in the region are encouraged to attend; alternative provision, family assessment centres, fostering, residential, SEND schools and colleges and supported accommodation.\nMarket engagement workshops\nIn person sessions to hold detailed discussion of the specification and specific terms and conditions for each lot. Providers who get a place will need to commit to reviewing documentation beforehand and attending prepared to contribute effectively.\nDue to limited room capacity places will be allocated to providers on a first come first served basis with a maximum of one attendee per organisation. We reserve the right to limit places for multiple representatives from providers in the same group structure or from linked organisations.\nSessions will be in central Manchester as below:\n9 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: Fostering\n11 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: SEND Schools and Colleges\n11 Nov 2026 2pm – 4.30pm: SEND Alternative Provision\n12 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: Residential\n12 Nov 2026 2pm – 4.30pm: Residential Family Centres\n23 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: Supported Accommodation\n23 Nov 2026 2pm – 4.30pm: Therapeutic/Health\nPlease ensure you are able to make these sessions before requesting a place.\nRequest a place at these sessions here: Design workshop: Provider registration – Fill in form. Please make your request before 5pm on 23 October and places will be confirmed by 28 October.\nNotes from these sessions will be shared with all providers to allow further input from a wider stakeholder group.\nInterested parties should register their interest in the design workshops by 23 October 2026.\nReview forums\nThese online sessions will follow the sharing of draft documents, focus on specific areas and will provide an opportunity for providers to feed back on the documents and terms and conditions.\nInvites to these sessions will be sent to providers who are on the current regional contracts. Providers who are not on the current regional contracts can register to receive invites here: Review forum: Provider mailing list registration – Fill in form\nOnline feedback form\nRecognising that there is commercial sensitivity and providers also may find it hard to attend on set dates this online form will remain open throughout to allow providers to ask questions, give feedback and input into the development.\nThe online form can be found here: Development of NW new regional contracts – Fill in form.\nFurther information\nPurpose of the sessions\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nUpdate on the progress of contract development can be found on our website here: www.nwadcs.org.uk/development-new-regional-contracts.\nContext\nThere are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three ‘lead authorities’, Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nFurther details can be found on the Chest Procurement Portal", "dueDate": "2026-11-24T23:59:59Z", "status": "scheduled" } ], "documents": [ { "id": "095658-2026", "documentType": "marketEngagementNotice", "noticeType": "UK2", "description": "Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender", "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/095658-2026", "datePublished": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "format": "text/html" } ] }, "tender": { "id": "GMCA ", "legalBasis": { "id": "2023/54", "scheme": "UKPGA", "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents" }, "title": "GMCA 2201: NW Regional Children’s Services Contract", "description": "There are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three ‘lead authorities’, Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nThe GMCA will be hosting a series of engagement sessions throughout November 2026.\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nCurrent Local Authorities Participating include -\nBlackburn with Darwen Council\nBlackpool Council\nBolton Council\nBury Council\nCheshire East Council\nCheshire West and Chester Council\nCumberland Council\nHalton Borough Council\nKnowsley Council\nLancashire County Council.\nLiverpool City Council\nManchester City Council\nOldham Council\nRochdale Borough Council\nSalford City Council\nSefton Council\nSt Helens Council\nStockport Metropolitan Borough Council\nTameside Metropolitan Borough Council\nTrafford Council\nWarrington Borough Council\nWestmorland and Furness Council\nWigan Council.\nWirral Council\nPlus any company in which any of the above local authorities is a shareholder (as sole shareholder or as a co-shareholder with any of the above local authorities and/or any other contracting authority); and\nWhich at the time meets the requirements of regulation 12(1) of the Public Contracts Regulation 2015.", "items": [ { "id": "1", "additionalClassifications": [ { "scheme": "CPV", "id": "85300000", "description": "Social work and related services" } ], "deliveryAddresses": [ { "region": "UKD", "country": "GB", "countryName": "United Kingdom" } ], "relatedLot": "1" } ], "value": { "amountGross": 16669991477, "amount": 13891659564, "currency": "GBP" }, "mainProcurementCategory": "services", "specialRegime": [ "lightTouch" ], "aboveThreshold": true, "techniques": { "hasFrameworkAgreement": true }, "lots": [ { "id": "1", "contractPeriod": { "startDate": "2027-08-01T00:00:00Z", "endDate": "2035-07-31T23:59:59Z" }, "status": "planned" } ], "communication": { "futureNoticeDate": "2027-03-01T23:59:59Z" }, "status": "planned" }, "language": "en", "extensions": [ "https://standard.open-contracting.org/profiles/eu/latest/en/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_amendment_rationale_classifications_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_budget_breakdown_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_contract_completion_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_documentation_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_pagination_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_suitability_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/portaledcahn/ocds_Links_extension/main/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/cabinetoffice/ocds_uk_extension/main/extension.json" ] }, { "id": "096132-2026", "tag": [ "planningUpdate" ], "date": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "initiationType": "tender", "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-078441", "parties": [ { "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority", "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "identifier": { "scheme": "GB-PPON", "id": "PXBN-3793-LCTQ" }, "address": { "streetAddress": "56 Oxford Street", "locality": "Manchester", "postalCode": "M1 6EU", "country": "GB", "countryName": "United Kingdom", "region": "UKD33" }, "contactPoint": { "email": "procurement@manchesterfire.gov.uk" }, "roles": [ "buyer" ], "details": { "classifications": [ { "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE", "id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment", "description": "Public authority - sub-central government" } ] } } ], "buyer": { "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority" }, "planning": { "milestones": [ { "id": "engagement", "type": "engagement", "description": "Location: Various\nOrganisations with previous experience in delivering the following services to North West authorities or delivering these services in the region are encouraged to attend; alternative provision, family assessment centres, fostering, residential, SEND schools and colleges and supported accommodation.\nMarket engagement workshops\nIn person sessions to hold detailed discussion of the specification and specific terms and conditions for each lot. Providers who get a place will need to commit to reviewing documentation beforehand and attending prepared to contribute effectively.\nDue to limited room capacity places will be allocated to providers on a first come first served basis with a maximum of one attendee per organisation. We reserve the right to limit places for multiple representatives from providers in the same group structure or from linked organisations.\nSessions will be in central Manchester as below:\n9 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Fostering\n11 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: SEND Schools and Colleges\n11 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: SEND Alternative Provision\n12 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Residential\n12 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: Residential Family Centres\n23 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Supported Accommodation\n23 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: Therapeutic/Health\nPlease ensure you are able to make these sessions before requesting a place.\nRequest a place at these sessions here: Design workshop: Provider registration https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/W6d7Q4MCfT - Fill in form. Please make your request before 5pm on 23 October and places will be confirmed by 28 October.\nNotes from these sessions will be shared with all providers to allow further input from a wider stakeholder group.\nInterested parties should register their interest in the design workshops by 23 October 2026.\nReview forums\nThese online sessions will follow the sharing of draft documents, focus on specific areas and will provide an opportunity for providers to feed back on the documents and terms and conditions.\nInvites to these sessions will be sent to providers who are on the current regional contracts. Providers who are not on the current regional contracts can register to receive invites here: Review forum: Provider mailing list registration - Fill in form https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/AD6Eh0db4y \nOnline feedback form\nRecognising that there is commercial sensitivity and providers also may find it hard to attend on set dates this online form will remain open throughout to allow providers to ask questions, give feedback and input into the development.\nThe online form can be found here: Development of NW new regional contracts - Fill in form. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/MV6E83zvty\nFurther information\nPurpose of the sessions\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nUpdate on the progress of contract development can be found on our website here: www.nwadcs.org.uk/development-new-regional-contracts.\nContext\nThere are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three 'lead authorities', Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nFurther details can be found on the Chest Procurement Portal", "dueDate": "2026-11-24T23:59:59Z", "status": "scheduled" } ], "documents": [ { "id": "096132-2026", "documentType": "marketEngagementNotice", "noticeType": "UK2", "description": "Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender", "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/096132-2026", "datePublished": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "format": "text/html" } ] }, "tender": { "id": "GMCA", "legalBasis": { "id": "2023/54", "scheme": "UKPGA", "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents" }, "title": "GMCA 2201: NW Regional Children's Services Contract", "description": "There are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three 'lead authorities', Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nThe GMCA will be hosting a series of engagement sessions throughout November 2026.\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nCurrent Local Authorities Participating include -\nBlackburn with Darwen Council\nBlackpool Council\nBolton Council\nBury Council\nCheshire East Council\nCheshire West and Chester Council\nCumberland Council\nHalton Borough Council\nKnowsley Council\nLancashire County Council.\nLiverpool City Council\nManchester City Council\nOldham Council\nRochdale Borough Council\nSalford City Council\nSefton Council\nSt Helens Council\nStockport Metropolitan Borough Council\nTameside Metropolitan Borough Council\nTrafford Council\nWarrington Borough Council\nWestmorland and Furness Council\nWigan Council.\nWirral Council\nPlus any company in which any of the above local authorities is a shareholder (as sole shareholder or as a co-shareholder with any of the above local authorities and/or any other contracting authority); and\nWhich at the time meets the requirements of regulation 12(1) of the Public Contracts Regulation 2015. \nFurther details and links on how to register are available on the chest procurement portal", "items": [ { "id": "1", "additionalClassifications": [ { "scheme": "CPV", "id": "85300000", "description": "Social work and related services" } ], "deliveryAddresses": [ { "region": "UKD", "country": "GB", "countryName": "United Kingdom" } ], "relatedLot": "1" } ], "value": { "amountGross": 16669991477, "amount": 13891659564, "currency": "GBP" }, "mainProcurementCategory": "services", "specialRegime": [ "lightTouch" ], "aboveThreshold": true, "techniques": { "hasFrameworkAgreement": true }, "lots": [ { "id": "1", "contractPeriod": { "startDate": "2027-08-01T00:00:00+01:00", "endDate": "2035-08-01T23:59:59+01:00" }, "status": "planned" } ], "communication": { "futureNoticeDate": "2027-03-01T23:59:59Z" }, "amendments": [ { "description": "Addition of hyperlinks", "id": "096132-2026" } ], "status": "planned" }, "language": "en", "extensions": [ "https://standard.open-contracting.org/profiles/eu/latest/en/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_amendment_rationale_classifications_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_budget_breakdown_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_contract_completion_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_documentation_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_pagination_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/open-contracting-extensions/ocds_suitability_extension/master/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/portaledcahn/ocds_Links_extension/main/extension.json", "https://raw.githubusercontent.com/cabinetoffice/ocds_uk_extension/main/extension.json" ] } ], "compiledRelease": { "tag": [ "compiled" ], "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-078441-2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "date": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-078441", "initiationType": "tender", "planning": { "documents": [ { "id": "095436-2026", "documentType": "plannedProcurementNotice", "noticeType": "UK1", "description": "Pipeline notice on Find a Tender", "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/095436-2026", "datePublished": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "format": "text/html" }, { "id": "095658-2026", "documentType": "marketEngagementNotice", "noticeType": "UK2", "description": "Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender", "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/095658-2026", "datePublished": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "format": "text/html" }, { "id": "096132-2026", "documentType": "marketEngagementNotice", "noticeType": "UK2", "description": "Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender", "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/096132-2026", "datePublished": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "format": "text/html" } ], "milestones": [ { "id": "engagement", "type": "engagement", "description": "Location: Various\nOrganisations with previous experience in delivering the following services to North West authorities or delivering these services in the region are encouraged to attend; alternative provision, family assessment centres, fostering, residential, SEND schools and colleges and supported accommodation.\nMarket engagement workshops\nIn person sessions to hold detailed discussion of the specification and specific terms and conditions for each lot. Providers who get a place will need to commit to reviewing documentation beforehand and attending prepared to contribute effectively.\nDue to limited room capacity places will be allocated to providers on a first come first served basis with a maximum of one attendee per organisation. We reserve the right to limit places for multiple representatives from providers in the same group structure or from linked organisations.\nSessions will be in central Manchester as below:\n9 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Fostering\n11 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: SEND Schools and Colleges\n11 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: SEND Alternative Provision\n12 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Residential\n12 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: Residential Family Centres\n23 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Supported Accommodation\n23 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: Therapeutic/Health\nPlease ensure you are able to make these sessions before requesting a place.\nRequest a place at these sessions here: Design workshop: Provider registration https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/W6d7Q4MCfT - Fill in form. Please make your request before 5pm on 23 October and places will be confirmed by 28 October.\nNotes from these sessions will be shared with all providers to allow further input from a wider stakeholder group.\nInterested parties should register their interest in the design workshops by 23 October 2026.\nReview forums\nThese online sessions will follow the sharing of draft documents, focus on specific areas and will provide an opportunity for providers to feed back on the documents and terms and conditions.\nInvites to these sessions will be sent to providers who are on the current regional contracts. Providers who are not on the current regional contracts can register to receive invites here: Review forum: Provider mailing list registration - Fill in form https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/AD6Eh0db4y \nOnline feedback form\nRecognising that there is commercial sensitivity and providers also may find it hard to attend on set dates this online form will remain open throughout to allow providers to ask questions, give feedback and input into the development.\nThe online form can be found here: Development of NW new regional contracts - Fill in form. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/MV6E83zvty\nFurther information\nPurpose of the sessions\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nUpdate on the progress of contract development can be found on our website here: www.nwadcs.org.uk/development-new-regional-contracts.\nContext\nThere are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three 'lead authorities', Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nFurther details can be found on the Chest Procurement Portal", "dueDate": "2026-11-24T23:59:59Z", "status": "scheduled" } ] }, "parties": [ { "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority", "identifier": { "scheme": "GB-PPON", "id": "PXBN-3793-LCTQ" }, "address": { "streetAddress": "56 Oxford Street", "locality": "Manchester", "postalCode": "M1 6EU", "country": "GB", "countryName": "United Kingdom", "region": "UKD33" }, "contactPoint": { "email": "procurement@manchesterfire.gov.uk" }, "roles": [ "buyer" ], "details": { "classifications": [ { "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE", "id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment", "description": "Public authority - sub-central government" } ] } } ], "buyer": { "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "name": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority" }, "tender": { "id": "GMCA", "legalBasis": { "id": "2023/54", "scheme": "UKPGA", "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents" }, "title": "GMCA 2201: NW Regional Children's Services Contract", "description": "There are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three 'lead authorities', Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. 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NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nCurrent Local Authorities Participating include -\nBlackburn with Darwen Council\nBlackpool Council\nBolton Council\nBury Council\nCheshire East Council\nCheshire West and Chester Council\nCumberland Council\nHalton Borough Council\nKnowsley Council\nLancashire County Council.\nLiverpool City Council\nManchester City Council\nOldham Council\nRochdale Borough Council\nSalford City Council\nSefton Council\nSt Helens Council\nStockport Metropolitan Borough Council\nTameside Metropolitan Borough 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"type": [ { "releaseID": "095658-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "engagement" } ], "description": [ { "releaseID": "095658-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "Location: Various\nOrganisations with previous experience in delivering the following services to North West authorities or delivering these services in the region are encouraged to attend; alternative provision, family assessment centres, fostering, residential, SEND schools and colleges and supported accommodation.\nMarket engagement workshops\nIn person sessions to hold detailed discussion of the specification and specific terms and conditions for each lot. Providers who get a place will need to commit to reviewing documentation beforehand and attending prepared to contribute effectively.\nDue to limited room capacity places will be allocated to providers on a first come first served basis with a maximum of one attendee per organisation. We reserve the right to limit places for multiple representatives from providers in the same group structure or from linked organisations.\nSessions will be in central Manchester as below:\n9 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: Fostering\n11 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: SEND Schools and Colleges\n11 Nov 2026 2pm – 4.30pm: SEND Alternative Provision\n12 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: Residential\n12 Nov 2026 2pm – 4.30pm: Residential Family Centres\n23 Nov 2026 10am – 12.30pm: Supported Accommodation\n23 Nov 2026 2pm – 4.30pm: Therapeutic/Health\nPlease ensure you are able to make these sessions before requesting a place.\nRequest a place at these sessions here: Design workshop: Provider registration – Fill in form. Please make your request before 5pm on 23 October and places will be confirmed by 28 October.\nNotes from these sessions will be shared with all providers to allow further input from a wider stakeholder group.\nInterested parties should register their interest in the design workshops by 23 October 2026.\nReview forums\nThese online sessions will follow the sharing of draft documents, focus on specific areas and will provide an opportunity for providers to feed back on the documents and terms and conditions.\nInvites to these sessions will be sent to providers who are on the current regional contracts. Providers who are not on the current regional contracts can register to receive invites here: Review forum: Provider mailing list registration – Fill in form\nOnline feedback form\nRecognising that there is commercial sensitivity and providers also may find it hard to attend on set dates this online form will remain open throughout to allow providers to ask questions, give feedback and input into the development.\nThe online form can be found here: Development of NW new regional contracts – Fill in form.\nFurther information\nPurpose of the sessions\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nUpdate on the progress of contract development can be found on our website here: www.nwadcs.org.uk/development-new-regional-contracts.\nContext\nThere are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three ‘lead authorities’, Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nFurther details can be found on the Chest Procurement Portal" }, { "releaseID": "096132-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planningUpdate" ], "value": "Location: Various\nOrganisations with previous experience in delivering the following services to North West authorities or delivering these services in the region are encouraged to attend; alternative provision, family assessment centres, fostering, residential, SEND schools and colleges and supported accommodation.\nMarket engagement workshops\nIn person sessions to hold detailed discussion of the specification and specific terms and conditions for each lot. Providers who get a place will need to commit to reviewing documentation beforehand and attending prepared to contribute effectively.\nDue to limited room capacity places will be allocated to providers on a first come first served basis with a maximum of one attendee per organisation. We reserve the right to limit places for multiple representatives from providers in the same group structure or from linked organisations.\nSessions will be in central Manchester as below:\n9 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Fostering\n11 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: SEND Schools and Colleges\n11 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: SEND Alternative Provision\n12 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Residential\n12 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: Residential Family Centres\n23 Nov 2026 10am - 12.30pm: Supported Accommodation\n23 Nov 2026 2pm - 4.30pm: Therapeutic/Health\nPlease ensure you are able to make these sessions before requesting a place.\nRequest a place at these sessions here: Design workshop: Provider registration https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/W6d7Q4MCfT - Fill in form. Please make your request before 5pm on 23 October and places will be confirmed by 28 October.\nNotes from these sessions will be shared with all providers to allow further input from a wider stakeholder group.\nInterested parties should register their interest in the design workshops by 23 October 2026.\nReview forums\nThese online sessions will follow the sharing of draft documents, focus on specific areas and will provide an opportunity for providers to feed back on the documents and terms and conditions.\nInvites to these sessions will be sent to providers who are on the current regional contracts. Providers who are not on the current regional contracts can register to receive invites here: Review forum: Provider mailing list registration - Fill in form https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/AD6Eh0db4y \nOnline feedback form\nRecognising that there is commercial sensitivity and providers also may find it hard to attend on set dates this online form will remain open throughout to allow providers to ask questions, give feedback and input into the development.\nThe online form can be found here: Development of NW new regional contracts - Fill in form. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/MV6E83zvty\nFurther information\nPurpose of the sessions\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nUpdate on the progress of contract development can be found on our website here: www.nwadcs.org.uk/development-new-regional-contracts.\nContext\nThere are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three 'lead authorities', Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nFurther details can be found on the Chest Procurement Portal" } ], "dueDate": [ { "releaseID": "095658-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "2026-11-24T23:59:59Z" } ], "status": [ { "releaseID": "095658-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "scheduled" } ] } ] }, "parties": [ { "id": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ", "name": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority" } ], "identifier": { "scheme": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "GB-PPON" } ], "id": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "PXBN-3793-LCTQ" } ] }, "address": { "streetAddress": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "56 Oxford Street" } ], "locality": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "Manchester" } ], "postalCode": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "M1 6EU" } ], "country": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "GB" } ], "countryName": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "United Kingdom" } ], "region": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "UKD33" } ] }, "contactPoint": { "email": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "procurement@manchesterfire.gov.uk" } ] }, "roles": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": [ "buyer" ] } ], "details": { "classifications": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": [ { "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE", "id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment", "description": "Public authority - sub-central government" } ] } ] } } ], "buyer": { "id": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "GB-PPON-PXBN-3793-LCTQ" } ], "name": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "Greater Manchester Combined Authority" } ] }, "tender": { "id": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "GMCA 2201" }, { "releaseID": "095658-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "GMCA " }, { "releaseID": "096132-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planningUpdate" ], "value": "GMCA" } ], "legalBasis": { "id": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "2023/54" } ], "scheme": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "UKPGA" } ], "uri": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents" } ] }, "title": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "GMCA 2201 NW Regional Children’s Services Contract " }, { "releaseID": "095658-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "GMCA 2201: NW Regional Children’s Services Contract" }, { "releaseID": "096132-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planningUpdate" ], "value": "GMCA 2201: NW Regional Children's Services Contract" } ], "description": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "North West Association of Directors of Children’s Services (NWADCS), representing the 24 North West local authorities, have a long track record of collaborative contracting for childrens services.\nUnder new arrangements hosted by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) NWADCS are introducing a new contract to allow the North West authorities a route to purchase services for children including; alternative provision, family assessment centres, foster care, residential, SEND schools and colleges, and supported accommodation.\nThe procurement exercise aims to establish an open framework designed to improve provider and local authority experience in relation to the purchasing of these services for children. Additional anticipated outcomes include\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nFollowing extensive pre-market engagement activity prior to the lead authority being identified the approach to contract development will focus on engagement with local authorities and providers and the experiences of children and young people using these services." }, { "releaseID": "095658-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-09T12:55:46+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "There are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three ‘lead authorities’, Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nThe GMCA will be hosting a series of engagement sessions throughout November 2026.\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nCurrent Local Authorities Participating include -\nBlackburn with Darwen Council\nBlackpool Council\nBolton Council\nBury Council\nCheshire East Council\nCheshire West and Chester Council\nCumberland Council\nHalton Borough Council\nKnowsley Council\nLancashire County Council.\nLiverpool City Council\nManchester City Council\nOldham Council\nRochdale Borough Council\nSalford City Council\nSefton Council\nSt Helens Council\nStockport Metropolitan Borough Council\nTameside Metropolitan Borough Council\nTrafford Council\nWarrington Borough Council\nWestmorland and Furness Council\nWigan Council.\nWirral Council\nPlus any company in which any of the above local authorities is a shareholder (as sole shareholder or as a co-shareholder with any of the above local authorities and/or any other contracting authority); and\nWhich at the time meets the requirements of regulation 12(1) of the Public Contracts Regulation 2015." }, { "releaseID": "096132-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-12T14:29:31+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planningUpdate" ], "value": "There are four regional purchasing systems operated by NWADCS on behalf of the 24 North West authorities, these date back to 2009 for the first regional residential contract. These arrangements now include over 500 providers and at any one time over 3000 children are living in homes sourced via a regional contract.\nThe planned contract end dates were January 2028 for Residential, March 2028 for Fostering, February 2031 for SENDAP and October 2031 for Supported Accommodation. As a result of changes in the operating context, including the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 we are reviewing all four arrangements at the same time.\nThrough this work we are aiming for:\nReduced duplication in procurement activity across the region.\nImproved transparency and oversight.\nBetter understanding of sufficiency.\nImproved approach to pricing and uplifts.\nLocal and sub regional collaboration.\nThe new contracts will replace the current arrangements. We cannot transfer providers onto any new contracts so you will need to apply to join.\nCurrently there are three 'lead authorities', Bolton, Cheshire East and Trafford. Current suppliers will have dealt with these authorities when they applied to join the purchasing system. All new arrangements will have Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) as the lead authority.\nThere is a significant amount of work involved in developing the new arrangements. We want to ensure we have addressed as many of the challenges providers have already raised during consultation as possible. As soon as we have a timeline in place this will be shared, and we are working towards a contract award in August 2026.\nThe GMCA will be hosting a series of engagement sessions throughout November 2026.\nThese engagement opportunities are in place to support providers being able to effectively contribute to the development of the new regional contracts for the North West. NWADCS have welcomed the spirit in which providers have participated in the early market engagement and the progress this has brought in better understanding the challenges faced in the sector and how our contracting arrangements can support effective working relationships with authorities.\nWe are seeking input from a range of providers, with a range of opportunities to contribute, recognising that in particular smaller providers may find it challenging to take the time to participate.\nCurrent Local Authorities Participating include -\nBlackburn with Darwen Council\nBlackpool Council\nBolton Council\nBury Council\nCheshire East Council\nCheshire West and Chester Council\nCumberland Council\nHalton Borough Council\nKnowsley Council\nLancashire County Council.\nLiverpool City Council\nManchester City Council\nOldham Council\nRochdale Borough Council\nSalford City Council\nSefton Council\nSt Helens Council\nStockport Metropolitan Borough Council\nTameside Metropolitan Borough Council\nTrafford Council\nWarrington Borough Council\nWestmorland and Furness Council\nWigan Council.\nWirral Council\nPlus any company in which any of the above local authorities is a shareholder (as sole shareholder or as a co-shareholder with any of the above local authorities and/or any other contracting authority); and\nWhich at the time meets the requirements of regulation 12(1) of the Public Contracts Regulation 2015. \nFurther details and links on how to register are available on the chest procurement portal" } ], "items": [ { "id": "1", "additionalClassifications": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": [ { "scheme": "CPV", "id": "85300000", "description": "Social work and related services" } ] } ], "deliveryAddresses": [ { "region": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", "releaseDate": "2026-10-08T19:38:48+01:00", "releaseTag": [ "planning" ], "value": "UK" } ], "country": [ { "releaseID": "095436-2026", 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