Orthotics (formally Community Appliance Service) in Wirral

The NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board has awarded a one-year contract to Opcare Limited for the provision of Orthotics Services, formally known as the Community Appliance Service, in Wirral. This procurement process, categorized under health services, was completed as a direct award under the Provider Selection Regime (PSR) following the 2023 regulations, bypassing the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. The contract commenced on 1st April 2025 and will conclude on 31st March 2026, with an annual value of £748,102.

The process was executed without prior publication of a call for competition due to the procurement falling outside the directive’s scope, supporting continued service delivery for patients in the region. This contract presents a significant opportunity for suppliers within the health services sector, particularly those skilled in orthotic services, to engage with public sector healthcare provisions. Businesses similar to Opcare Limited, which possess a solid track record in delivering healthcare services, may position themselves well to transition seamlessly into such roles, thereby expanding their service portfolios.

The direct award process underscores the importance of maintaining good standing with current contracts as a pathway to securing similar opportunities in the future. This contract is ideal for SMEs that have the capability to integrate and innovate within established healthcare systems, aiming to enhance service quality, value, collaboration, and access while addressing health inequalities.