Kent Carers Support Service

Kent County Council has awarded the Kent Carers Support Service contract through an open procurement process using a competitive flexible procedure. The contract aims to support unpaid carers across Kent, replacing existing services with a focus on areas such as wellbeing, young carers' transition, and emergency breaks. The awarded contract is divided into two geographical lots, with Imago Community securing Lot 2 for West Kent.

The contract, valued at £47,220,600 gross, spans from 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2029, with potential extensions up to 2033. Key deadlines include the end of the standstill period on 12th November 2025 and a future contract signature scheduled for 28th November 2025. The main procurement category is services, under a specialised light-touch regime, indicating a focus on health and social work services within the region.

This tender provides significant opportunities for businesses specialising in social support services, especially SMEs and VCSEs, due to the council's emphasis on community engagement and the resilience of local infrastructure. With criteria prioritising a provider's service model, technical capabilities, and their ability to support carers effectively, businesses that demonstrate strong local knowledge and innovative approaches to service delivery are well-positioned to compete. The procurement approach encourages a focus on not just economic delivery but also social value, offering a platform for organisations to establish their footprint in Kent and strengthen their community ties, contributing positively to local socio-economic structures.