Falls Prevention Service
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real focus isn't just on preventing falls
When you first look at this tender, it might seem like it's all about reducing fall incidents.
But West Sussex County Council is actually looking for a partner who can support the independence and quality of life of its residents.
It's not just about numbers.
It's about people staying active, safe and confident in their own homes.
The contract covers a countywide service in West Sussex, running from 31 March 2027 to 31 March 2032, with a potential extension of two years. The total value is £2,000,000.
Remember who you're trying to help
This service isn't just for anyone.
It's for a vulnerable group — predominantly older residents who are at risk of falling.
Think about their worries.
They fear losing their independence, the possibility of injury and the subsequent loss of mobility.
Your response needs to show empathy and understanding of these concerns.
Focus on outcomes, not just activities
Many bidders will list the activities they plan to carry out.
But that's not enough.
West Sussex County Council wants to see the outcomes you will achieve.
How will your service improve the lives of residents?
Will they feel more secure and supported?
Will they have fewer hospital visits?
Those are the outcomes to focus on.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder claimed to deliver an excellent service.
Very few proved it.
If you have evidence, use it.
- Case studies from similar services
- Testimonials from service users
- Data showing reduction in falls in other contracts
- Awards or recognitions in service delivery
These will have a much stronger impact than empty promises.
Pay attention to what they say
West Sussex County Council is clear that this service is about more than just fall prevention.
They want a partner who understands community engagement and can work collaboratively with local health services.
They spell this out in the documents.
So, don't just talk about interventions.
Talk about partnerships, local knowledge and community integration.
Show how you'll keep standards high over five years
Consistency is key in a long-term contract.
The Council will want to know how you'll maintain high-quality service throughout the five-year term.
Think about staffing and training.
What happens when key staff are on leave or sick?
How will you ensure continuous service delivery?
I'd want to see a robust plan detailing how you'll handle these challenges.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
At the heart of this contract are the residents of West Sussex.
If I were writing this tender, I'd keep asking myself:
"How will this service positively impact their daily lives?"
Every part of your response should be able to answer that question.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus purely on the technical aspects and ignore the human element
- Fail to provide evidence of past successes
- Overlook the importance of collaboration with local health services
- Neglect to address how they'll maintain service consistency
- Use generic language that could apply to any contract
- Ignore the specific needs of West Sussex residents
- Lack a clear outcomes-focused approach
- Miss the chance to demonstrate community engagement
My Final Thoughts
West Sussex County Council is looking for more than a falls prevention service.
They're looking for a partner who can genuinely enhance the lives of their residents.
With a contract value of £2,000,000 over five years, the emphasis on quality can't be overstated.
The written submission must convincingly show your understanding and ability to deliver on these priorities.
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.