£92 Billion Prison Operator Services Framework (POSF2): Key Info and How to Engage

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) is preparing to launch one of the UK’s largest public sector procurements: the Prison Operator Services Framework 2 (POSF2). This framework is expected to cover up to £92 billion in services over eight years, from 2027 to 2035.

To help suppliers prepare, the MoJ is hosting a dedicated market engagement event in January 2026 for prospective operators and delivery partners.

Here’s what you need to know and how to take advantage of this critical early window of opportunity.

What Is POSF2?

POSF2 will be the second iteration of the UK’s framework for operating prisons, enabling the delivery of custodial and rehabilitative services either through standalone contracts or mini-competitions under the framework.

It’s expected to be used to procure the operation of multiple public and privately managed prisons, as well as facilities like HMP Rye Hill, which is also referenced in the planning documents.

While the formal tender is not due until February 2026, the MoJ is actively engaging suppliers now to help shape the commercial model and expectations.

In-Person Engagement Event: January 2026

The Ministry of Justice will host a Subject Matter Experts Panel on Tuesday 13 January 2026, at the offices of Pinsent Masons in Leeds.

This in-person only event will feature panel sessions with MoJ and HMPPS experts across five key areas:

• Finance (1:15pm–1:45pm)
  Understanding the Financial Response Template (FRT) and Cost Assumptions Questionnaire (CAQ)
• Reducing Reoffending (1:45pm–2:15pm)
  Strategies for designing and delivering impactful programmes
  
• Staff Profiling and Resourcing (2:15pm–3:00pm)
  Key principles for operational workforce planning
  
• Mobilisation (3:30pm–4:00pm)
  Best practice for service mobilisation following contract award
  
• General Q&A (4:00pm–4:30pm)
  An open forum for supplier questions, with anonymous Q&A via Slido
  

Attendance is by invitation only and limited to 5 attendees per organisation.

• Deadline to register: 5pm, 8 January 2026
• Register via: the MoJ e-sourcing portal (Jaggaer)

Why Early Engagement Matters

This is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to:

• Influence the design of service expectations
• Gain early visibility into likely commercial structures
• Start preparing the extensive documentation and evidence needed to bid successfully
• Network with MoJ stakeholders and other potential delivery partners

For example: the event covers mobilisation planning, an area that often derails first-time bidders. Hearing directly from MoJ teams allows suppliers to align early and avoid costly mistakes.

What You Should Do Now

Register for the Market Engagement Event

If you have not yet registered for POSF2, create a Jaggaer account and express your interest in PQQ_404 – Market Engagement for Prison Operator Services Framework Agreement – Generation Two.

Start Assembling Your Evidence Base

High-value, high-risk frameworks like POSF2 typically require:

• Financial models and pricing narratives
• Workforce strategy and staff profiling
• Social value and reducing reoffending plans
• Safeguarding, security, and contingency planning
• Mobilisation and delivery roadmaps

We recommend building your bid readiness library now, so you’re not caught off guard when the tender is released. For practical tips and insights, read our ultimate guide to bid writing.

How Thornton & Lowe Can Help

We support organisations in the justice, custodial and rehabilitation services sectors to win complex public sector bids through:

• Bid writing services
• Bid strategy development and workshops
• Mobilisation plans and implementation roadmaps
• Training in public sector tendering
• Compliance and quality assurance checks

Whether you're a prime contractor or potential delivery partner, our expertise can help you prepare confidently and competitively.

Summary

The Prison Operator Services Framework 2 (POSF2) is a landmark public procurement opportunity, and the January 2026 SME Panel event is your chance to engage directly with MoJ and HMPPS experts.

Taking action now will:

• Strengthen your understanding of operational requirements
• Help shape how services will be procured
• Give you time to build a compelling, fully compliant bid

Let's make sure you’re ready. Call Thornton & Lowe on 01204 238 046 or contact us online to arrange a bid readiness consultation.