St Helens Borough Council Soft Market Test for the Provision of an Adult Short Break Respite Service

St Helens Council is currently in the planning stage for the procurement of an adult short break respite service. The council has issued a soft market testing notice to gauge interest and gather feedback from potential providers. Interested parties are invited to register on The-Chest portal and submit their responses by 12 noon on 29th April 2025.

This procurement process is classified under health and social work services and other community, social, and personal services, with the contract set to commence on 1st September 2025 and conclude on 31st August 2028. The procurement value is estimated at £953,000. This tender presents significant opportunities for business growth in the health and social work services sector.

Suitable businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs), can benefit from engaging with St Helens Council. The procurement process is designed to support smaller entities, providing them with a chance to demonstrate their capabilities and secure long-term contracts. Businesses involved in social and community services, particularly those experienced in respite care, would be well-suited to compete for this opportunity.