CC14112 - Visual Impairment Service

West Lothian Council has completed a procurement process for the contract titled "CC14112 - Visual Impairment Service," focusing on providing visual impairment and habilitation services in West Lothian. The procurement, classified under the services category, used a limited method and did not involve a public competition. This direct award was justified under the Scottish Government's procurement guidance and regulations due to the specific nature of the services required and the technical reasons limiting competition.

The contract was awarded to Sight Scotland with an estimated value of £390,000, covering a period from 1st April 2025 to 31st March 2027. The agreement was approved by the West Lothian Council Executive on 11th March 2025, and the contract commenced on 29th April 2025. This direct award contract offers significant opportunities for businesses specialising in care and support services, particularly those experienced in providing services for people with visual impairments.

Companies with a strong technical background in this niche sector that can demonstrate sound knowledge and proven capabilities would be well-positioned to engage in similar future opportunities. SMEs like Sight Scotland, which can swiftly respond to direct award scenarios without the need for competitive tendering, stand to benefit and expand their service offerings within the community, making this contract a vital stepping stone for growth in public service delivery sectors.