Care Home Services Framework for Older Adults: New Provider Application

Staffordshire Council is reopening its framework agreement for residential and nursing care home services for adults aged 65 and over. New service providers are invited to submit tenders to join the framework with a commencement date of 15th February 2027. Existing providers awarded under the original framework (commencing 1st September 2026) do not need to reapply. The framework covers four service categories: Residential for Older People, Residential for Older People with Dementia, Nursing for Older People, and Nursing for Older People with Dementia. Placements are primarily for residents whose ordinary residence is in Staffordshire (excluding Stoke-on-Trent) and are made based on assessed needs within a reasonable distance (typically up to 20 miles from the resident's home), unless the resident chooses otherwise or no suitable local provision exists. Service providers must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for residential and/or nursing care. Providers must accept all types of placements including long-stay (permanent residence), temporary stay (up to 52 weeks), and respite care (up to 8 weeks, including emergency 24-hour crisis support). Providers should be flexible in meeting changing resident needs or facilitate transfers to alternative providers when necessary. The Council will determine placement costs based on the most cost-effective option meeting assessed needs. This procurement reflects the Procurement Act 2023 objectives of delivering value for money, maximising public benefit, ensuring transparency, maintaining integrity, and reducing barriers for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).