National Advocacy Information Advice and Safety Net Service. - Preliminary Market Engagement Notice

Department for EducationcontractFind a TenderRef ocds-h6vhtk-065951Procurement Act 2023SME suitableVCSE suitableplanning
View buyer

Estimated value

£540k

services

Awarded value

Suppliers

0

Lots

1

0 awarded

Published

20 Feb 2026

This is a preliminary market engagement notice

Map the supplier landscape and document your shortlist before opening the tender. The market simulation produces a defensible audit record you can attach to your procurement file.

Run market simulation

Description

The Department for Education is seeking market feedback on the re-procurement of a national advocacy information, advice and safety net service for looked-after children, care leavers, children in need, and other eligible children and young people in England. The service will provide clear, child-friendly information on advocacy rights; national multichannel advice and signposting; and a safety net advocacy function where local provision is unavailable, unreasonably delayed or denied. The provider will also deliver national intelligence on access, waiting times and systemic barriers; maintain a secure CRM and digital platform; meet safeguarding and data security requirements; and ensure service continuity, workforce capacity and robust reporting and security requirements.

Scope

Reference
project_10339
Total value
£540,000 excluding VAT
£648,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Commercial tool
Standalone contract
Contract dates
30 Sept 2026 to 30 Sept 2028
Possible extension to 30 Sept 2029
Main category
services
CPV classifications
85311300
85312300
71356300
Contract locations
North East England, United Kingdom
North West England, United Kingdom
West Midlands, United Kingdom
East Midlands, United Kingdom
South East England, United Kingdom
East of England, United Kingdom
South West England, United Kingdom
London, United Kingdom
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)