Southend-on-Sea City Council has announced its intention to establish a new Adults Residential and Respite Framework. This will be a multi-supplier agreement covering residential and respite care for all adult client groups, including older people, those with learning disabilities, people with mental health needs and adults with complex needs. The framework is expected to span eight years, making it one of the longest-term adult care commissioning opportunities available in the market.
The tender notice isn't expected until September 2026, but with an eight-year framework, early preparation and engagement pays dividends. Contact Thornton & Lowe for an opportunity review.
What the Framework Will Cover
The framework will support Adult Social Care and Health partners in the commissioning and placement of both residential and respite provision across all adult client groups. While the final lot structure hasn't been confirmed, a multi-supplier, multi-lot arrangement is expected, potentially segmented by client group or service type. This would create access for specialist and generalist providers alike.
Who Is This Relevant To?
The framework is aimed at care providers delivering services to adults in Southend-on-Sea, including:
- Residential care homes (all adult client groups)
- Nursing homes
- Respite and short break providers
- Supported living providers with on-site or sessional care
- Providers specialising in learning disabilities, mental health or complex needs residential care
Bidding Considerations
- Broad client group requirement: The framework covers all adult client groups, not a single specialism. Providers will need to demonstrate experience across a relevant range of client needs, or make a compelling case for their specialist niche.
- Health and social care integration: The involvement of health partners alongside adult social care signals an expectation of integrated, multi-agency working. Evidence of partnership working across health and social care will strengthen bids.
- Eight-year commitment: This is a genuinely long-term partnership. Evidence sustainability in your staffing model, quality governance, CQC ratings and plans for continuous improvement.
- Local knowledge: Southend-on-Sea is a unitary authority with its own demographic profile and commissioning priorities. Demonstrating local knowledge and community connections will be valued.
- Monitor the notice: As the tender isn't expected until September 2026, watch the official notice closely for updates on lot structure, eligibility and submission timelines.
Quick Facts
- Buyer: Southend-on-Sea City Council
- Duration: 8 years
- Type: Multi-supplier framework agreement
- Scope: Residential and respite services for all adult client groups
- Estimated value: Not stated
Key Dates
- Tender notice publication (estimated): 1 September 2026
For care providers with a credible presence in or around Southend-on-Sea, this framework warrants serious strategic attention. Use the time before the tender drops to get your CQC ratings, policies and case study bank in order. Speak to Thornton & Lowe today.
