Qwell online mental health counselling platform in St Helens

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board is progressing through the award stage of a procurement process for the delivery of the Qwell online mental health counselling platform in St Helens. The contract is set to begin on 8th May 2025 and run until 31st August 2027, with an annual contract value of £45,000. This initiative supports the health services category and focuses on providing accessible mental health services to adults in the region.

The procurement approach is a direct award under the Provider Selection Regime, in accordance with the Health Care Services Regulations 2023, which results in a limited procurement method without prior publication of a call for competition. Key decision criteria for this award included social value, improving access, quality, and service sustainability, with a standstill period in place for provider representations until 8 working days from 23rd April 2025. This tender presents significant opportunities for established providers in the health services sector, particularly those experienced in digital health platforms.

Companies like Kooth Digital Health Ltd, the incumbent provider, are particularly well-suited for this contract as they continue to meet contract requirements to a high standard. The focus on integrating innovative solutions for mental health support aligns with the growing demand for digital health services, facilitating business growth for entities that specialise in similar service offerings. Engaging in this contract could bolster a provider’s portfolio by aligning their services with strategic regional health initiatives and expanding their influence within the public sector health market.