VRU Hospital Based Youth Work

The Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) sought to procure an in-hospital youth work service for Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments in London hospitals, titled "VRU Hospital Based Youth Work". This contract falls under the Health and Social Work Services industry category (CPV code 85000000). The A&E departments involved include Croydon University Hospital, University Hospital Lewisham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Newham University Hospital, and The Whittington Hospital.

The procurement process, in the Tender stage, had key submission and clarification deadlines in April and May 2023. The awarded contracts started on 1st July 2023 and will end by 31st March 2025 with potential extension options. The open procedure was employed for this procurement, and the process was suitable for SMEs and VCSEs.

This tender presented significant opportunities for businesses specializing in youth social work, particularly those experienced in handling cases involving violence and exploitation. With the contract valued at a total of GBP 4,418,080 and split into two lots awarded to Redthread (GBP 2,676,882) and St Giles Trust (GBP 1,742,198), it is a substantial opportunity for growth. Suitable businesses would be those capable of embedding youth workers within hospital settings to provide immediate and follow-up support in various areas, including employment, education, housing, or mental health.

SMEs and VCSEs, particularly those focused on social care and community support services, would find this an attractive tender to participate in.