Pathfinder Services (support for adult survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence)

The Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust has formally awarded a contract for Pathfinder Services, aimed at supporting adult survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence. The procurement, which falls under the health services sector (CPV: 85100000), adheres to the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023 and involves a direct award procedure without prior competition. The contract, worth £75,938, commences on 1st November 2025 and concludes on 31st March 2028.

Key decision-making figures in this process include Frances Molyneux, Head of Clinical Services Contracts, and other clinical and operations leads. Representations were required by 4th September 2025, and the award was confirmed on the same date as the contract start. This procurement process is a significant opportunity for businesses specialising in healthcare services, particularly those with experience in delivering sensitive support to survivors of abuse and violence.

Enterprises that offer high-quality, empathetic care tailored to the needs of vulnerable groups within the Greater Manchester area will find potential growth in this domain. Although the existing provider has been retained, organisations capable of demonstrating exemplary service standards in line with NHS criteria had the best chance to engage successfully within this competitive framework, as evidenced by the selection of Trafford Rape Crisis as the supplier.