Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) Best interest Assessor - Request for Information

Blackpool Council, a public authority of sub-central government level in the UK, is in the planning phase of a public procurement process for a Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) Best Interest Assessor Framework. This procurement involves the health services industry category and is intended to be implemented in the Blackpool region (UKD42). A market engagement notice has been published to inform and consult potential service providers, with key dates including a consultation deadline on 15th October 2025.

The procurement falls under the light-touch regime and is not above threshold, indicating an openness to a wider variety of contract sizes. The projected start date for the contract is 1st January 2026, running through to 31st December 2030. This tender opportunity provides significant growth prospects for businesses specialising in health services, especially for SMEs and VCSEs.

The focus on establishing a framework for Best Interest Assessments suggests a need for expertise in legal and health service provision centered around safeguarding rights. Participation in the consultation phase could allow businesses to influence the ballpark rates for service delivery, optimising their competitive positioning for the future tender. With the tender still in the planning stage and a future notice due by the end of October 2025, businesses have ample time to prepare and develop a compelling proposal to meet Blackpool Council's requirements.