Outpatient Tobacco Dependency Service

Southampton City Council has awarded a contract for the Outpatient Tobacco Dependency Service, aimed at addressing tobacco dependency within the community of Southampton. The service falls under the health services category and is part of the broader NHS Long Term Plan, designed to support patients through the tobacco dependency cessation process. The procurement process was initiated and managed as a Provider Selection Regime award, in accordance with the Health Care Services Provider Selection Regime Regulations 2023.

The total contract value is £545,200, covering a four-year period commencing from 1st April 2025. The award process did not involve prior publication of a call for competition due to the specificity of the service and regulatory provisions. This tender presents significant potential for businesses involved in healthcare, particularly those specialising in tobacco dependency and cessation services.

The absence of competition in the award process indicates a preference for providers with specific expertise and existing integration within the local healthcare system. Organisations that can offer comprehensive tobacco cessation support, including behavioural therapy and pharmaceutical aids, would be well-suited to excel in similar procurement opportunities in the future. This contract highlights the importance of specialised health services and the strategic role they play in public health initiatives, ensuring residents of Southampton receive targeted support to address tobacco dependency.