Advocacy Services Review - Preliminary Market Engagement

Manchester City Council and Manchester Local Care Organisation are reviewing their Advocacy Services ahead of the current contract ending on 30 September 2027. This is a preliminary market engagement exercise (soft market testing) to inform future service planning and potential procurement. Advocacy providers delivering statutory and/or non-statutory services are invited to participate, regardless of current location. Participation involves completing a brief survey (10-15 minutes) via The Chest e-procurement portal and attending a virtual workshop on 20 October 2026 at 3pm. This engagement will gather feedback on current challenges, opportunities, future demand, and service model considerations. The Council will use this input alongside performance data, demand analysis, and financial information to make future commissioning decisions. Key priority is ensuring sustainable, effective, and responsive Advocacy provision that achieves positive outcomes for citizens. Participating organisations will be notified if a competitive tender process proceeds, but participation does not guarantee inclusion in future tender opportunities. The Council reserves the right to use alternative procurement routes or decide not to proceed to tender.