NHS England South East - Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) in the South East of England & Dorset

This notice is placed as a Prior Information Notice (PIN) to inform the market of NHS England South East's and NHS England South West's, (the Commissioners'), intention to recommission Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) Services in late April 2024. Prior Information Notices have previously been published regarding the South East SARC; this is an update to inform the market that this will now include the addition of Dorset as a lot within the procurement process. NHS England South East will be the lead commissioner and Dorset SARC will be commissioned by NHS England South West. Previous publication concerning this procedure: 2024/S 000-005754 NHS England, the Offices of the Police & Crime Commissioner (OPCCs) and Police Forces within the South East and Dorset will be seeking providers who have the capability and capacity to deliver SARC provision for both adults (18 years and over) and children (under 18 years). The areas covered within the upcoming recommissioning exercise, and therefore likely Lots, will be: • Kent • Surrey • Sussex • Hampshire (including the Isle of Wight) • Thames Valley (excluding Milton Keynes) • Dorset There is considerable variation in service provision across the SARCs, not only with regard to the age and needs of service users, but also in relation to activity, service specification, and referral pathways. The recommissioning exercise will aim to increase equity of access and ensure a consistent and high standard of quality care to victims of sexual assault. The service will be delivered in line with current national standards, guidance and best practice, and at the same time meet the local needs of each Force area. The procurement is anticipated to be published w/c 22nd April 2024. This exercise is being managed by NHS South Central and West Commissioning Support Unit (SCW) on behalf of the Commissioner.