Counselling / Talking Therapy Services in York and North Yorkshire
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
This isn't just about therapy
If I were looking at this tender, I'd focus on the real outcome: helping victims of crime regain control and confidence.
Yes, they're seeking counselling and talking therapies. But what they're really buying is a service that can support vulnerable individuals through trauma.
Remember, there are two distinct lots here: one for adult victims and another for young victims under 17.
That's important.
Because the needs of these groups are very different.
Think about the people you're helping
It's easy to say you'll provide therapy. But remember, these are victims of crime.
They're dealing with complex emotions.
Fear, anxiety and sometimes a loss of trust.
Your response should reflect an understanding of these emotions.
How will you tailor your services to meet the specific needs of adults and young people?
Consider the different approaches and techniques that might be necessary for each group.
Pay attention to what they say
The notice is clear on one thing: this is a countywide service.
York and North Yorkshire are large areas.
Offering consistent quality across all locations will be crucial.
They've also split the requirement into two lots. Adult and young victims.
This tells me they recognise the unique needs of each group.
Your submission should address how you'll manage these differences.
Evidence always speaks louder than promises
In my experience, every bidder promises excellent service. But few back it up with evidence.
If you've worked with similar groups before, share that experience.
- Case studies of successful outcomes
- Testimonials from past clients
- Data demonstrating impact
These will carry more weight than any promise.
Don't underestimate the importance of trust
When providing services to victims of crime, trust is everything.
These individuals need to feel safe and supported.
How will you build and maintain that trust?
Think about your staff.
Their qualifications, their training, their approach.
That's what I'd emphasise.
Managing the service over time
This contract runs for nearly two years, potentially extending to 2029.
Consistency will be key.
Clients need to know they can rely on your service throughout the contract duration.
Consider:
- Staff continuity and training
- Regular performance reviews
- Handling staff absences
I'd want to see how you'll ensure standards don't slip.
Remember, it's not just about price
The value of this contract is £913,125.
While that's significant, the buyer isn't obliged to accept the lowest bid.
They're looking for value for money.
That means demonstrating how your service offers more than just a competitive price.
Show them the added value you bring.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
At the heart of this contract are real people.
Victims of crime who need support.
Every response should be tested against the question, "Does this help improve the lives of the people we're serving?"
If your submission can answer "yes" to that, you're on the right track.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Overlook the distinct needs of adults versus young victims
- Fail to provide evidence of past success
- Ignore the countywide nature of the service
- Assume price is the only factor in decision making
- Lack detail on managing consistency over the contract term
- Don't address staff qualifications and training
My Final Thoughts
This tender is about more than just providing therapy.
It's about supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society.
The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority wants a service that understands this.
With a value of £913,125 and a term running until 2029, they need to know your written submission offers real value. Quality, not just price, will be pivotal.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.