Provision of therapy for children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse and/or violence

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, acting on behalf of Barnsley Children and Young People's Trust, has initiated a procurement process to secure a service provider for delivering therapy and support services to children and young people impacted by sexual abuse and/or violence. The procurement falls under the services category, specifically health services, with an industry classification of CPV 85100000. This contract will be awarded following a limited procurement method, specifically a direct award process under the Provider Selection Regime (PSR).

The publication notice for the award initiates the standstill period, which invites provider representations until 27 August 2025. The Council intends to award this contract to the existing service provider, South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, with the locale being Barnsley, South Yorkshire, designated by the region code UKE31. The contract holds a value of £480,000 and was signed on 15 August 2025.

This tender offers significant opportunities for businesses interested in the health services sector, particularly those specialising in therapy services for vulnerable groups. Businesses with expertise in providing trauma-informed care and support for young people would find this opportunity well-aligned with their capabilities. The direct award strategy indicates a high requirement for proven competency and may limit new providers; however, it also signals an emphasis on maintaining continuity and quality of service.

Organisations with previous experience working under the PSR or those familiar with similar regulatory environments are well-suited to engage in this competitive bidding environment, either through future opportunities or as sub-contractors alongside the awarded entity.