Occupational Health

The procurement process for an Occupational Health service, managed by Suffolk County Council, recently faced a cancellation at the tender stage due to an extension taken on the current contract. The procurement, identified by tender ID PA0015, was initially in planning as of 2025, with a tender cancellation notice published on 12 January 2026. Located in Ipswich, UK, with the postal code IP1 2BX, the buying organisation is a public authority of sub-central government.

Originally planned under the services industry category, the procurement sought to cater to both Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. Although the procurement process reached the planning stage, future notices had been anticipated post 31 July 2025, but the process has since been withdrawn. This procurement was set to provide a lucrative opportunity for businesses within the health services sector, with a potential contract value reaching up to £3,000,000.

The planned contract period spanned from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029, with a possible extension to 2031. The procurement emphasised opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs). While the process was withdrawn, similar tenders with such focus on an inclusive business growth strategy are valuable avenues for businesses with relevant expertise and alignment with public procurement needs.