Termination of Pregnancy Services (TOPS) in Hertfordshire

This notice is to confirm the award of a contract to Marie Stopes Reproductive Choices to provide Termination of Pregnancy Services (TOPS) across Hertfordshire. This Contract Award Notice follows the publication of a Voluntary Ex-Ante Transparency Notice which was published on 16th March 2023 (notice reference: 2023/S 000-007631). The termination of pregnancy service provides termination of pregnancies which are quick and safe depending on the personal health and circumstance of the individual service user, to help to reduce repeat abortions and unintended pregnancies and to promote better sexual health amongst service users. The contract duration is 1st April 2023 to 31st March 2024 with the option to extend for a further year to 31st March 2025. The value identified in this Notice is exclusive of VAT and is for the potential 2-year period, including the extension. The value of the initial 12-month contract is £1,358,115 (exclusive of VAT). The Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (HWE ICB) was established on 1st July 2022. The HWE ICB replaced the Clinical Commissioning Groups within Hertfordshire and West Essex. The HWE ICB are currently developing their commissioning strategy for sexual health services, this review and strategy development will determine how the services are best delivered to our patients in future. The short-term nature of this contract allows continuity of care for patients whilst the strategy is developed and delivered. As this was a direct award, the closing date within this notice is the date on which the decision to award was made through HWE governance.