Crisis Cafes

The procurement process concerns the provision of Crisis Cafés in Devon, inclusive of Torbay and Plymouth, orchestrated by the Devon Partnership NHS Trust and coordinated with NHS South West - Acutes. This initiative falls under the industry category of health and social work services, specifically community guidance and counselling services. The procurement was completed in July 2025, following a restricted procedure under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.

The process entails a selective procurement method where the final contract was awarded to Mental Health Matters, effective from 1 July 2025. The primary aim is to offer support services outside traditional working hours to individuals in mental health crises, leveraging a welcoming and non-stigmatising environment. This tender provides significant opportunities for providers within the health and social services sector, particularly those with expertise in community-based mental health support.

Businesses skilled in offering psychological support environments and possessing the capability to collaborate effectively with community mental health teams are well-suited to engage in such contracts. The current procurement serves as an integral part of the local community mental health offerings, aiming to enhance recovery and self-management outcomes for service users. This initiative is crucial for organisations looking to expand their footprint in the health services domain by serving vulnerable populations and contributing to regional mental health strategies.