Placement of a young person in Foster Care

The procurement process initiated by Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council involves a direct award for the placement of a young person in foster care, categorised under health and social work services. This specific contract, titled "Placement of a young person in Foster Care," is governed by the legislative framework of the UKPGA 2023/54. The procurement process has reached the award stage as of 8th August 2025.

The council, located in Oldham, UKD37, has engaged in a non-competitive, below-threshold procurement method recognised under light-touch regime, allowing flexibility in the procurement of health-related services. The contract, valued at GBP 40,000, is to be executed by Flourish Fostering Limited, based in Stockport, and is set to run from 8th August 2025 to 31st March 2026, with options for extension until 6th July 2029. This contract creates significant opportunities for businesses in the health and social care sector, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and social enterprises (VCSEs), which are suited for such light-touch procurement opportunities.

Businesses specialising in foster care services stand to benefit from engaging in this procurement process due to the potential for contract renewal and extension. The direct award mechanism and the non-competitive nature of this procurement provide an excellent opportunity for SMEs to establish or strengthen their presence in the public sector services market, especially those equipped to provide specialised support for vulnerable young individuals. Businesses interested in fostering and care services can leverage this tender to expand their client base and contribute significantly to community welfare services.