Short Breaks Services for Children with Disabilities

Worcestershire County Council is establishing an open framework to procure short breaks services for children with disabilities. The framework aims to improve service availability and outcomes for vulnerable children while meeting the Council's legal sufficiency duty. The procurement is divided into four service types: • Lot 1: Overnight Fostering Short Breaks • Lot 2: Overnight Residential Short Breaks • Lot 3: Domiciliary Care • Lot 4: Short Breaks Support Workers Initial Framework Launch (1 November 2026): The first open framework will cover Lots 1 and 2 (overnight fostering and residential short breaks). An unlimited number of suppliers can be approved and added to the framework. Once approved, suppliers will be eligible for call-off contract awards. Subsequent Frameworks: Lots 3 and 4 will transition from the existing Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) to a new open framework starting 1 March 2027. All lots will reopen for applications at least annually in autumn thereafter. Key Requirements: Suppliers must be qualified and experienced in delivering short breaks services. Selected suppliers will help ensure children receive high-quality, appropriate care tailored to their needs, with strong safeguarding and improved individual outcomes.