Day Opportunity Services for Adults with a Learning Disability and or Autism

Kirklees Council is looking into a potential procurement option to put in place future contractual arrangements for suitably qualified and experienced organisations to deliver Specialist Building based and Community based, Day Opportunity Services for adults with a Learning Disability and or Autism. Historically Day opportunities provision in Kirklees has been in part delivered via block contract arrangements which are now approaching their end.

In addition, we have also noted a significant growth within the private sector market, of day care services that are being accessed by individuals using a direct payment. In order to better manage the market and ensure continued sustainability, affordability and choice we are scoping alternative ways of delivering this type of provision.

The proposed service model will operate across multiple venues within Kirklees, offering a mix of building-based activities and community-based opportunities. This dual approach supports social inclusion, maximises use of community assets, and reflects best practice in strengths-based care planning. Key features of the scope include:

• Framework Agreement: Providers will be appointed to a framework, enabling flexibility and choice for individuals while ensuring compliance with procurement regulations.
• Tiered Pricing Structure: Costs will be linked to levels of need and complexity, ensuring equity and transparency.
• Quality Assurance: Where appropriate Providers will be required to meet CQC standards, Kirklees' contract monitoring requirements, and demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement.
• Accessibility and Inclusion: Services must be culturally appropriate, inclusive of people with learning disabilities and or Autism, and promote community participation.

To support this, we would like to gain information from the market regarding a number of issues related to the potential procurement exercise. Suppliers are therefore invited to consider the programme requirements detailed in this document and complete the attached questionnaire to give us feedback on the proposed approach. This Market Sounding Exercise (MSE) is not an invitation to tender or a request for formal expressions of interest.

The Council, as contracting authority, is issuing this request for information only, in order to assess the reaction of the market and thus make any potential procurement process more focused and efficient.