Outreach Support Provider – Successful Award Of Central Bedfordshire Council’s Framework (Lot 2)

Case Study

Outreach Support Provider – Successful Award of Central Bedfordshire Council’s Framework (Lot 2)

Tender Overview

In November 2025, we partnered with a growing outreach support organisation to secure their acceptance onto Central Bedfordshire Council’s Framework Agreement for Outreach Support (Lot 2). This framework covers a range of community-based support roles, including frontline staff, senior outreach workers, managers, and senior managers, all aimed at providing flexible one-to-one support for vulnerable individuals within the local area.

For the client, this tender represented more than a routine submission; it was a strategic entry point into a competitive commissioning environment where being listed as an approved provider unlocks long-term call-off opportunities, multi-year revenue potential, and enhanced credibility across the region. Despite having experience delivering support services, the organisation required a structured and compelling approach to meet the council’s evolving expectations under the Procurement Act 2023.

Main Challenges

Although the client had operational capability, several factors made this tender particularly challenging:

1. Navigating a New Framework Under Updated Procurement Rules

The tender was issued in line with the Procurement Act 2023, and the client found it difficult to interpret the implications of the act, especially around standstill procedures and mandatory declarations. The updated structure created uncertainty, and they needed clarity on how to complete the forms in a way that would be fully compliant and risk-free.

2. Complex Pricing Requirements

Central Bedfordshire Council required detailed pricing for multiple worker categories, including hourly rates, estimated delivery hours, and cost projections. The client struggled with balancing competitive pricing and operational sustainability, concerned that errors or weak justification could undermine their submission.

3. Evidence and Capability Demonstration

The council expected clear demonstrations of capability around safeguarding, risk management, staff training, quality assurance, and practical outreach delivery. The client had the experience, but they lacked the structured documentation and strong narrative required to communicate it effectively.

4. Concern About Standstill Challenges

With the tender being highly competitive, the client wanted assurance that their submission would be strong enough to withstand any potential challenges during the standstill period. They sought expert guidance to ensure accuracy, credibility, and compliance from start to finish.

How We Worked

Our approach combined sector knowledge with a methodical tender development process:

We applied a deep understanding of outreach service delivery, ensuring the narrative reflected the realities of frontline work rather than theoretical descriptions.
We aligned the client’s service model with Central Bedfordshire Council’s expectations, especially around workforce structure, supervision, and community engagement.
We produced a submission that balanced operational detail, strategic clarity, and professional presentation – three elements that are essential for high-quality framework bids.

We supported the client through every stage, from drafting and pricing to compliance checks and submission, ensuring the process was smooth and stress-free.

Results

On 26th November 2025, the client received formal confirmation that their tender for Lot 2 – Outreach Support had been successful. The council confirmed that, subject to the standstill period, the organisation would be added to the Approved Providers List (APL) for the framework.

Key outcomes included:

Acceptance across all required worker roles
No issues raised during the standstill period
A confirmed contract start date of 1st February 2026 and end date of 31st January 2029
Immediate eligibility to receive call-off invitations throughout the framework term

The clean approval demonstrated the strength, clarity, and compliance of the submission.

Outcome and Long-Term Impact

This success places the client in a strong competitive position within Central Bedfordshire. As an approved provider, they now have:

1. Direct Access to Call-Off Opportunities

They can now bid for ongoing outreach support packages throughout the four-year contract period, opening the door to steady growth and service expansion.

2. Increased Credibility and Market Visibility

Framework acceptance signals reliability, governance strength, and operational capability, qualities that other councils and commissioners actively look for.

3. A Stronger Operational and Evidence Base

The process gave the client improved documentation, clearer internal processes, and stronger organisational presentation, which they can now reuse across future tenders.

4. Ongoing Competitive Advantage

With our support, the client is now better positioned to respond quickly and effectively to call-off opportunities, maintain compliance, and compete confidently within the wider social care market.

We continue to support them with call-off bid responses, content development, and wider positioning strategies to ensure they maximise this framework opportunity.

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