RESTORING RAPID ACCESS: FAST TRACK MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT ACROSS THE VALE

The procurement process for "Restoring Rapid Access: Fast Track Mental Health Support Across the Vale" involves the NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership-Procurement Services, hosted by Velindre University NHS Trust. This initiative is focused on counselling services within the UK region, specifically UKL22. The procurement cycle is currently at the award stage, with the contract being awarded on 29th December 2025, and scheduled to provide services from 1st January 2026 to 31st December 2027.

The procurement follows the Provider Selection Regime Wales regulations of 2025, using the Most Suitable Provider Process, which is distinct from the traditional Public Contracts Regulations 2015. The contract valued at £113,800 is not a result of any modification but based on the unique capabilities of the selected supplier, MIND IN THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN. The project had passed through the planning stage earlier in December, followed by an intention to award notice with a standstill period until 24th December 2025 for provider representations.

Opportunities for business growth through this tender are significant, particularly for enterprises offering mental health services and looking to expand within the public health sector in Wales. The intended service aims to offer rapid mental health assessments and short-term support, handling approximately 87 referrals per month. Companies with a robust background in delivering high-performing mental health solutions, especially those capable of integrating social prescribing and maintaining quick response times, would be well-suited to compete.

The tender also indicates a preference for local suppliers with an established governance framework and compliance with NHS standards—this focus on local capability presents small to medium enterprises based in the Vale or those specialising in public health services with a valuable prospect for market expansion.