The Provision of a Keyworker Service for Children and Young People in East Berkshire

The 'Key Working Function' has been developed as a response to the NHS England and NHS Improvement Long Term Plan (LTP) commitment that by 2023/24, children and young people with a learning disability, autism or both, with the most complex needs. NHS Frimley ICB ("the ICB") sought to commission a Keyworker Service for Children and Young People service across East Berkshire. The purpose of the Keyworker service is to support children and young people and their families within East Berkshire to navigate a complex system, have their voices heard, and have their needs met at the right time.

The service was procured through an Open procedure, which was undertaken during late 2022/early 2023 to identify the Most Economically Advantageous Tender and therefore determine the incoming provider.

The East Berkshire Keyworker Service will be delivered initially in two phases:

• Year 1: Keyworker support will be offered to children and young people with a learning disability and autistic children and young people with the most complex needs from ages 0-25 and their families, on the Dynamic Support Register as an inpatient or at risk of admission to a mental health hospital and
• Year 2: Keyworker support will be extended to those who face multiple vulnerabilities such as looked after and adopted children, and children and young people moving between services, like moving to adult services.

The contract has been awarded to Barnardo's. The total value of the contract is £519,373.62 for the initial two year contract term, with a total contract lifecycle value of £1,239,364.63 including the two year extension. The initial two- year period will commence in April 2023.

This procurement has been carried out by NHS South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit (SCW) on behalf of the Commissioner(s).