Closing the Gap 2 Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support Service

Reading Borough Council has awarded a contract for the "Closing the Gap 2 Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support Service" in Reading, United Kingdom. This procurement process, initiated as an open competition, aims to enhance service accessibility for refugees and asylum seekers, covering healthcare, education, skills development, advocacy, social inclusion, and mental health. The tender, part of light-touch regime procurement, has been completed, with the contract officially awarded on 28 July 2025.

The total contract value is £325,000, with services scheduled to commence on 1 November 2025 and running potentially until 31 October 2030, allowing for a two-year renewal. Key partners in this initiative include Reading Borough Council as the buyer and Refugee Support Group Ltd as the supplier. This contract presents significant opportunities for businesses specialising in social and community services, particularly those focusing on support for refugee and asylum seeker populations.

Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs) with expertise in social work, healthcare, education, and community integration will find this project aligns well with their capabilities. The focus on reducing health inequalities and fostering long-term change offers scope for innovative services aligning with public health strategies, making it an attractive collaboration opportunity for businesses aiming to expand or reinforce their position in the public service sector.