Counselling Service

The NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board has awarded a contract for counselling services in West Lancashire under the Provider Selection Regime regulations. The service, focused on health services, will provide counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy as part of the West Lancashire talking therapy single point of access pathway to individuals registered with a Lancashire & South Cumbria ICB General Practitioner. The contract, awarded to Yewdale Counselling Services, a small to medium-sized enterprise, was signed on 4th February 2025 and is valued at £205,934 over its lifetime, running from 1st April 2025 to 31st March 2027.

This procurement process did not involve prior publication of a call for competition and is compliant with direct award process C, highlighting the existing provider's capability to meet the requirements of the new contract sufficiently. Opportunities for business growth arise from this contractual award within the health services domain, specifically for businesses specialising in counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy services. Companies with existing capabilities in these areas and those familiar with the integration into healthcare pathways will find this contract particularly beneficial.

The procurement method utilised suggests a preference for existing providers with the ability to maintain consistent service quality, value, and integration, making it an ideal growth opportunity for businesses already engaged in similar services. As the procurement focuses on improving access, reducing health inequalities, and facilitating choice, businesses that can demonstrate innovation and quality assurance in these areas will be well-suited to participate and provide competitive offerings for future opportunities.