SEND Specific Holiday Activities with Healthy Food for Children in Receipt of Benefits-related Free School Meals (Summer 2025)

Durham County Council, a sub-central government public authority, has completed a public procurement contract aimed at delivering SEND Specific Holiday Activities with Healthy Food for Children in Receipt of Benefits-related Free School Meals over the summer of 2025. The contract, awarded under an open competition procurement method, is classified under the health and social work services category. It involves providing services within the County Durham region, with a contract period running from 19th July to 2nd September 2025 and a potential for renewal.

The project has been awarded to ALD Hairdressing Training Academy Ltd, an SME based in Birtley, to operate as the supplier for this initiative, which supports school-aged children and aligns with standards set by the Department for Education. This procurement presents significant opportunities for growth for businesses involved in education, health, and community services, particularly those capable of delivering comprehensive enrichment and physical activities, food provision, and family support services. Businesses with expertise in similar areas or those wishing to expand into health and social services could find this tender particularly appealing.

The project's scope and potential for extension may attract SMEs and possibly organisations with experience in working with communities and enhancing child welfare and educational outcomes. Businesses that meet the Department for Education's framework of standards and have the capacity to deliver innovative programmes within these parameters would be well-suited to compete for similar opportunities.