AC2228 - Community Based Services

Wiltshire Council, a sub-central public authority based in Trowbridge, initiated the "AC2228 - Community Based Services" tender with the aim of developing a framework for purchasing social work services for adults and children across Wiltshire. The procurement process experienced a major update on 1st December 2025, when the council decided to cancel the tender and reissue it at a later date. This pivot followed considerations aligned with the Procurement Act 2023.

The tender initially intended its contract period to start on 1st April 2026 and end by 31st March 2029, with potential re-openings in future years. The procurement was designed as an open procedure, under the "light touch" regime, ideally suited for organisations classified under EU service categories. The value of the tender was estimated around GBP 52 million net.

This tender presents a robust opportunity for businesses that are capable of providing high-quality, community-based social work services. Specifically, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as organisations with social enterprise credentials (VCSE), stand to benefit from participating due to the tender's adaptability to suit smaller, yet efficient, operations. The emphasis on social work services without accommodation caters to businesses within the UK, especially those with regional capabilities in the South West.

As the framework offers lots focused on different care needs, companies with innovative care models, strong local knowledge, and the ability to provide sustainable services will find this opportunity particularly conducive to growth. Upon future reissuance, firms that engage in the preparatory market engagement activities will be well-positioned to shape and participate in the subsequent procurement rounds.