Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) to NHS England South East

NHS England South East, the Offices of the Police & Crime Commissioner (OPCCs) and Police Forces within the South East were seeking providers who have the capability and capacity to deliver Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) services for both adults (18 years and over) and children (under 18 years).

NHS England is the lead commissioner for these services.

This procurement was divided into 5 lots with the associated advertised contract values, covering the following areas:

Lot 1: Hampshire (including the Isle of Wight); £9,044,000

Lot 2: Kent; £9,044,000

Lot 3: Surrey; £9,044,000

Lot 4: Sussex; £9,044,000

Lot 5: Thames Valley (excluding Milton Keynes); £13,552,000

Due to its geography, there will be two SARC premises in Thames Valley. For all other areas, there will be one SARC premises.

The services within scope, include core SARC provision, including, SARC management, the provision of medical and forensic examinations (both acute and non-recent), crisis support and onward referral services for people who have experienced sexual assault. It should be noted that non-recent cases will not necessarily need to be undertaken at the (accredited) SARC site.

At present, there is considerable variation in service provision across the SARCs, not only with regard to the age and needs of service users, but also in relation to activity, service specification, and referral pathways.

The recommissioning exercise aims to increase equity of access and ensure a consistent and high standard of quality care to victims of sexual assault. The service will be delivered in line with current national standards, guidance and best practice, and at the same time meet the local needs of each Force area.

The Provider will ensure that services are delivered in an age-appropriate way for children and adults; all staff must meet the skills and competences commensurate with the role they are performing. The service will consider safeguarding, health and forensic requirements in line with current and relevant guidelines.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) services and therapeutic provision including counselling and talking therapies are out of scope. However, the SARC provider/s will work closely with these services and ensure service users are referred to onward provision as appropriate.

The contract term (for each lot) is planned to commence on 1st April 2025 and will be fixed for a duration of seven years.

This notice serves as an intention to award a contract under the competitive process of the Provider Selection Regime (PSR).

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