A Framework Agreement for the Provision of Independent Fostering Agency (IFA) Services

This procurement invites tenders from both new applicants to The Councils' Framework for the Provision of Independent Fostering Agencies (IFA) Services, or from existing providers on this framework who wish to improve their original price offers or to apply for a place on additional lots.

The notice for the original establishment of the Framework Agreement was published on the 28th July 2021 (reference 2021/S 000-017949) and the amended publication dated 7th September 2021, reference 2021/S 000-022124) which read as follows:

"This procurement is for the establishment of a framework agreement for the provision of independent fostering agency services across sixteen (16) local authorities that comprise the South-Central IFA Framework consortium. This ITT is to establish a Framework Agreement between Southampton City Council (on behalf of the South-Central IFA Framework consortium) and those tenderers successful in their applications to be accepted on to the framework to enable the provision of foster care placements in accordance with the terms of the framework agreement. The consortium have the following needs from independent fostering agency placements:

Foster carers for children of all ages, but particularly for older children aged 10-15 years. Foster carers who can meet higher levels of need, complexity and risk.

Foster carers who can care for sibling groups - particularly large sibling groups.

Foster carers who care for parent and child placements

Foster carers who can care for disabled children- especially with adapted homes. Some will have complex medical needs and some may have a limited life expectancy.

Foster carers who are registered for only one child to meet the need for solo placements.

Foster carers who can care for Unaccompanied Asylum Seekers and with an awareness/willingness to work in partnership to meet their immediate immigration, health and educational needs.

In addition, the Councils are particularly looking for local, well-matched placements, including education provision, and with commitment to the best interests of the child.

Enhanced fostering care placements for children and young people with higher levels of need.

The Framework is comprised of the following 4 Lots:

Lot 1 (Standard Placements 0+ Years)

Lot 2 (Children with Disabilities)

Lot 3 (Parent and Child Placements)

Lot 4 (Enhanced Fostering Placements)

Providers may bid for one or more of these Lots in any combination.

This is a requirement amongst some of the consortium members for foster placements that may be located with Wales. As such providers of fostering services based in Wales in addition to those in England are welcome to tender.

Additional information: The procurement is to continue establishing a framework agreement with an initial term of four years with 16 months remaining.

There is the option to extend the framework agreement by up to two additional twelve month periods, i.e. from 1st April 2026 - 31st March 2027 and from 1st April 2027- 31st March 2028.