End of Life care services in Halton and West Cheshire

The NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board has proceeded with the award of a contract for "End of Life care services in Halton and West Cheshire," under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023. This contract, valued at £1,583,089 annually, was granted directly to Halton Haven Hospice as there was no realistic alternative provider. The contract commenced on 1st April 2025 and is set to expire on 31st March 2026.

The services will be delivered to patients registered with a GP in Halton or West Cheshire, covering crucial health service categories such as inpatient care, day hospice services, family and bereavement support, among others. This procurement follows a limited method, involving direct award without prior publication of a call for competition, with a decision approval date of 19th November 2024. This tender represents significant business opportunities for organisations specialising in healthcare services, particularly those that offer hospice and palliative care.

While the current award was made based on the specific criteria of no realistic alternatives, similar opportunities might arise for businesses offering innovative solutions or complementary healthcare services that enhance the quality and delivery of end-of-life care. The contracting process provides insights for healthcare providers on the regulatory frameworks impacting provider selection and award procedures. Small and medium enterprises, such as those providing specialised therapies or community-based care initiatives, may find it beneficial to engage with future tenders, leveraging partnerships or demonstrating unique service capabilities to meet health system needs in regional areas like Halton and West Cheshire.