Short Breaks Commissioning

Devon County Council is currently in the planning stage of a procurement process titled "Short Breaks Commissioning", aimed at transforming its short breaks provision into a commissioned service. This opportunity falls under the industry category of health and social work services and targets the UK's South West region, specifically region UKK43. A pipeline notice was published on 16th December 2025, with future notice communications expected by 1st August 2026, indicating potential upcoming procurement activities.

Each procurement lot is planned to commence services from 31st December 2026 and continue until 31st December 2034, under a special regime agreement referred to as "light touch". Interested parties are encouraged to engage early with the council's direction for short breaks, especially during the discovery days held across Tavistock, Barnstaple, and Exeter in July 2025. These events provide an insight into challenges and opportunities within the current landscape, as well as areas for potential service improvement, making them crucial for prospective bidders to understand the council's expectations and strategic goals.

For businesses seeking growth opportunities, this tender could be excellent for organisations specialising in health and social work services, particularly those focused on disability care and support. It offers avenues for service development and partnership collaboration, including a framework agreement for long-term engagement. The contract is suited to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs) who are equipped to provide diverse and flexible solutions for short breaks, encompassing activities such as sports, music, crafts, and drama.

Engagement in this tender process allows businesses to align closely with Devon County Council's objectives, contributing to supporting disabled children and young people within local communities, thereby enriching the social fabric and expanding business operations through collaboration and innovation in service delivery.