Cross Regional Project

The procurement process initiated by Oxfordshire County Council encompasses a Cross Regional Project aiming to provide residential, educational, and therapeutic services for children aged 11 to 17 with complex needs. This initiative is classified under 'Social work and related services,' with a planned launch date of 1st August 2027 and concluding on 31st July 2032, with the possibility of extension until 2037. The current stage is planning, with a preliminary market engagement set to end on 19th December 2025.

This engagement seeks feedback on optimal delivery methods across multiple counties, including Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Milton Keynes, Reading, Bedfordshire, and Oxfordshire. The procurement method involves a light touch regime, suitable for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs). This tender presents significant business growth opportunities for organisations specialising in social services, education, and therapeutic care for youth.

Eligible providers will be able to engage in a block contract for the provision of services within registered special schools to support children with and without Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) across key stages 3 to 5. Businesses with expertise in residential care and related educational solutions, especially those capable of expanding placement capacity beyond the initial 36 placements, are particularly suited to compete. The Council's e-tendering platform, Proactis, will facilitate participation, encouraging innovative solutions from potential suppliers who can meet the complex needs of children in the specified age range.

This engagement offers not only a contractual opportunity but also the potential for influencing future service delivery models in public care for children across the concerned regions.