Lived Experience and Recovery Support - Drugs, Alcohol and Suicide Prevention - PSR Direct Award Process C

The procurement process for the provision of Lived Experience and Recovery Support – Drugs, Alcohol and Suicide Prevention has been completed by Blackpool Council. The contract, classified under health services (CPV: 85100000), falls within the services category and was executed using a direct award process under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023. This tender, conducted through a provider selection regime, was awarded to Empowerment Charity Lancashire.

The contract covers the region of UKD42, Blackpool, and will span from 1st April 2025 to 31st March 2026, with potential extensions up to four additional years. The direct award process C bypassed the need for prior publication of a call for competition, with Blackpool Council notifying the supplier in March 2025. The total contract value amounts to £745,695.00.

This contract offers significant business growth opportunities, particularly for large-scale organisations with expertise in providing health and social care services. Businesses focusing on social innovation, quality improvement, and collaborative integration will find this contract especially appealing, as the award criteria emphasised these factors alongside reducing health inequalities. The procurement presents an opportunity to work alongside local authorities and expand service delivery in areas addressing substance abuse and mental health.

Prospective bidders need the capacity to deliver specialised support through experienced teams of peer mentors who can engage with individuals affected by drugs and alcohol addiction. With a significant emphasis on social value and sustainability, the tender offers a conducive environment for businesses to contribute to community health and wellbeing.