Birth Parent Support

The procurement process conducted by North Lanarkshire Council focused on acquiring independent support services for birth parents in North Lanarkshire, who no longer have care of their children. This tender, titled "Birth Parent Support," falls under the industry category of general public services, with a specific focus on mental and social challenges. The procurement was finalized through a limited procedure, bypassing the usual competitive call, due to the absence of existing council structures capable of providing such services.

With the procurement already completed, the contract was awarded on 14 May 2025, following the award stage of the process which ended on 17 June 2025. The key supplier for this contract is The Why Not Trust for care experienced young people, a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) based in Falkirk, UK. The awarded contract creates substantial opportunities for businesses specialising in social and mental health services aimed at vulnerable populations.

SMEs with expertise in providing tailored support services for parents dealing with issues such as unresolved grief, social isolation, addiction, and the stigma associated with losing custody of their children would find this contract particularly aligned with their core competencies. It highlights an opportunity for businesses to establish strong footholds in the public sector by delivering essential services that address significant social needs, paving the way for growth in reputation and contract portfolio.