Residential and Nursing Care Framework

Southend-on-Sea City Council is preparing to procure a new Residential and Nursing Care Framework to support adults with a range of care and support needs, including older people, people living with dementia, adults with learning disabilities, people with mental health needs and individuals requiring nursing care. The Council is seeking to develop a more transparent, consistent and sustainable approach to residential and nursing care, with a stronger relationship between individuals' assessed needs, the complexity of support required, provider capabilities and the fees paid for care. The proposed framework will support improved placement decision-making, greater consistency in funding arrangements and a stronger understanding of the capacity and capabilities available within the local care market. The Council currently intends to establish a framework under the light-touch provisions of the Procurement Act 2023, with an estimated value of £296 million over the proposed maximum eight-year period. The proposed initial term is five years, with options to extend for up to three additional years in 12-month increments. The final procurement structure remains subject to confirmation. The formal Invitation to Tender and associated tender notice are expected to be published by the end of 2026. Before commencing procurement, the Council wishes to engage with providers to test its proposed approach and ensure that the future framework reflects the needs of residents, the capabilities of the market and the practical considerations of delivering sustainable, high-quality care.