SEND Disagreement Resolution and Mediation Service

Knowsley Council has completed the procurement process for the "SEND Disagreement Resolution and Mediation Service" under the legal framework UKPGA 2023/54. The contract, aimed at providing services related to social work and community, social and personal services, was awarded through an open competition under the light touch regime. Located in Huyton, the procurement process involved an active tender stage with a submission deadline on 22nd September 2025.

The contract began on 1st December 2025 and will extend until 30th November 2028, with an option for a 24-month extension. This opportunity was managed as a below-threshold procurement, reflecting a gross value of £270,000. This contract offers significant business growth prospects, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) specialising in mediation services, social work, or related community services.

WHY MEDIATE LIMITED, an SME, secured the award, signalling opportunities for similarly structured businesses with expertise in these areas. The procurement focused on strategic partnerships aiming to address community needs and enhance service delivery within the region, providing a valuable platform for enterprises seeking to expand their portfolio within the public sector. Competing businesses would benefit from experience in handling complex social mediation cases, thus contributing to resolving special educational needs and disability disagreements effectively.