Supported Employment - AWARD

West Berkshire Council has awarded a contract for a Supported Employment Service for Young People and Adults, focusing on those aged 16-25 with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP) or who are Not in Education, Training or Employment (NEET) with an EHCP, as well as adults aged 18+ who previously had an EHCP, have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), or are supported by Adult Social Care (ASC). This initiative falls under the education and training services category and includes related services such as community action programmes and special education services. The procurement process has been completed, with the contract awarded on 20 February 2025, and the service is set to run from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2028.

The contract, designated through an open procedure, highlights its suitability for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSEs). The service locations include the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, Europe, British Overseas Territories, and the rest of the world. This tender represents a significant opportunity for businesses specialising in educational and community services to further their growth.

Companies with expertise in providing support for young people and adults with SEND or EHCPs, or those that offer comprehensive training and employment services, would be well-positioned to compete for such contracts. The project's scope and requirements highlight the potential for sustainable business engagement, particularly for SMEs and VCSEs seeking to contribute to impactful social services. Suppliers like Ways into Work CiC, who have been awarded the contract, demonstrate the value of specialist knowledge in this field, making it a promising venture for similar organisations.