School Counselling Service

The School Counselling Service procurement process conducted by the Scottish Borders Council aims to appoint an experienced and qualified service provider to offer counselling services to children and young people aged 10 to 18. This procurement falls under the "Light Touch Regime" per the Public Contracts (Scotland) Regulations 2015. Located in Newtown St Boswells, region UKM91, the council operates as a regional authority, providing general public services.

Initially tendered in March 2025 with active industry classification in guidance and counselling services, this process follows an open procurement method. The tender stage received responses by 22 April 2025, with contracts commencing on 1 August 2025, running until 31 March 2028, with potential extensions based on performance reviews, providing ample opportunity for interested firms to engage. The opportunity is poised to catalyse growth for businesses specialising in educational and youth-focused counselling services.

Companies with a proven track record in delivering high-quality counselling—highlighted by the tender’s emphasis on quality criteria—will find this procurement process well-suited for their expertise. The open procurement method encourages broad participation, including SMEs and offers electronic submissions, ensuring accessibility for diverse service providers. With a competitive focus on both quality and price, businesses that can demonstrate effective service delivery and innovation in counselling will stand to gain valuable experience and expand their influence within the public sector, particularly within the educational services segment in the UK region.