Preliminary Market Engagement - Intercountry Adoption Services

Oxfordshire County Council is initiating a public procurement process for providing comprehensive intercountry adoption services, entitled "Preliminary Market Engagement - Intercountry Adoption Services". The procurement process is currently in the planning stage and aims to engage interested parties through a brief questionnaire. This engagement intends to inform the Council’s requirements and the design of any future procurement related to these services, primarily targeting residents in the administrative areas where Adopt Thames Valley is active.

The services fall under the industry category of welfare and counselling services for children and young people. The engagement questionnaire is scheduled to be due by 8 August 2025, with the expected contract period starting from 1 April 2026. While this is not a formal tender, responses will be influential in shaping future procurement expressions.

The entire initiative will be governed by UK adoption policy and legal requirements, creating potential opportunities for partnering businesses. This procurement opens significant opportunities for SMEs and VCSEs interested in expanding their services within the public sector, particularly those with expertise in counselling and welfare services for children and young people. Businesses with the capability to provide comprehensive adoption services and those interested in entering or strengthening their presence in the child welfare industry within the UK are well-positioned to benefit from this procurement process.

Engaging early at this planning stage allows businesses the opportunity to influence procurement design and ensure alignment with their service offerings and expertise. Participation in the questionnaire will enhance visibility and allow potential suppliers to position themselves strategically for future procurement opportunities with Oxfordshire County Council.