Digital Inclusion service for Asylum Seekers and Displaced People
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real focus isn't just digital
When I look at the tender from the London Borough of Croydon, the standout element isn't the digital aspect.
It's the human element.
This isn't just about providing digital tools and resources.
It's about supporting asylum seekers and displaced people in rebuilding their lives and integrating into the community.
The contract covers a 12-month period, with an option to extend for another year.
But remember, it's not just about the duration.
It's about the impact you can have during that time.
Think about the people, not the technology
I know it sounds strange, but focusing solely on technology won't win this contract.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see how you plan to address the unique and diverse needs of asylum seekers.
This means understanding their cultural contexts and providing person-centred support.
It's about helping them gain independence and improve their wellbeing through digital means.
But the technology is just a tool.
The real work is in the relationships and trust you build.
Pay attention to collaborative partnerships
The council mentions collaboration with statutory services and community organisations.
This isn't just a tick-box exercise.
They want to see genuine partnerships.
I'd suggest detailing how you've worked with similar organisations in the past.
Evidence of successful collaborations will be crucial.
Explain how you'll work with existing services to provide a seamless support network.
Outcomes, not activities
Most bidders will focus on listing activities they can deliver.
But what the council really wants are outcomes.
How will your service help individuals to integrate successfully?
What measurable improvements in wellbeing and independence will your service facilitate?
These are the questions I'd be answering.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that evidence spoke louder than words.
Promises are easy to make.
But evidence shows you can deliver.
Include examples of past projects where you've made a tangible difference.
- Case studies of successful integrations
- Testimonials from partners and service users
- Data demonstrating improved outcomes
These will set your bid apart.
Cultural sensitivity is key
The council emphasises culturally appropriate services.
This is not a minor point.
It's crucial.
I'd be clear about how your team is equipped to meet this need.
Do you have staff who speak relevant languages?
What cultural training does your team undergo?
Show how you'll tailor your approach to fit diverse cultural backgrounds.
Consistency over the whole term
Maintaining a consistent service over the contract duration is critical.
What happens if key staff leave?
How will you ensure continuity and reliability?
The council will want assurance that standards won't slip over time.
I'd outline your processes for recruitment, training and quality control.
Remember the local community
This contract is about integration into the local community.
It's not just about the individuals but how they fit into the broader community.
Think about how your service can create connections within the community.
Consider partnerships with local groups and activities that encourage community participation.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on technology without addressing human needs
- Lack evidence of previous successful partnerships
- Fail to demonstrate cultural sensitivity
- Overpromise outcomes without backing them up with evidence
- Ignore the importance of maintaining service consistency
- Neglect to address community integration
- Rely on generic responses instead of tailored solutions
My Final Thoughts
I keep coming back to the fact that this isn't just a digital service.
It's a lifeline for people trying to rebuild their lives.
The London Borough of Croydon is looking for a partner who can deliver more than just digital skills.
They want someone who can help asylum seekers and displaced people feel part of the community.
Although the contract value is listed as nil, remember that the real value lies in the potential to make a meaningful impact.
With the emphasis on quality and collaboration, your written submission will be crucial in showing how you can deliver these outcomes.
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.