Fostering and Continuing Care Framework

" This initiative aims to establish a multi-provider framework focusing on delivering quality foster and continuing care placements for children and young people requiring family-based accommodation. The procurement spans several lot categories including Specialist/Disability, Short Breaks, Continuing Care, Permanent Placements, and Mainstream, with an emphasis on health and social work services. The process, under the CPV classification 85000000, operates within the UKM75 region, and the most recent data indicates that the award and contract stages have been reached, with significant contracts signed on 9th June 2025.

The procurement method involved selective negotiations, in line with the light touch regime under the Public Contracts (Scotland) Regulations 2015. This tender represents a significant opportunity for businesses engaged in fostering and care provision services to gain substantial growth through active participation. With an emphasis on quality services over price (70% quality criteria), businesses that excel in providing child-centred and trauma-informed care are well-positioned to compete effectively.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) stand to benefit greatly, as evidenced by the active involvement of multiple SMEs such as Care Visions Fostering Scotland and Fostering People. The framework agreement, extending longer than typical terms to provide stability, offers a robust platform for businesses to expand their service offerings and impact positively on community welfare. Successful bidders who meet the stringent quality standards set forth by The City of Edinburgh Council will be involved in a high-impact, socially beneficial endeavour.