Closing the Gap 2 Women's Wellbeing Service

Reading Borough Council has successfully awarded a contract titled "Closing the Gap 2 Women's Wellbeing Service" to Berkshire Women’s Aid, under an open procurement process specifically tailored for services in the social work sector. Situated in Reading, the initiative aims to empower women at risk of poor health outcomes through community-focused, preventative measures, aligning with the council’s strategic priorities for health and wellbeing. The procurement process is complete, following its initiation in early 2025, with expressions of interest concluded by 27th May 2025, and the official award made on 28th July 2025.

The service contract is valued at £400,000, with a gross amount of £500,000, stretching from 1st November 2025 to 31st October 2028, with possible extensions up to 2030. This contract presents significant growth opportunities for businesses, particularly SMEs and VCSEs, focusing on community and social services. As an open competition method was used, it exemplifies an approachable tendering process for businesses with capabilities in delivering social value and community well-being initiatives.

Companies in the social work, health service, and related sectors will find this an ideal match for their expertise, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the reduction of health inequalities and promoting sustainable change within the community. The structured procurement aligns with strategic needs assessments, ensuring that service provisions meet critical local health outcomes and expectations.