Framework Agreement for the Procurement of Occupational Health Counselling Services
A practical guide to understanding what Gloucestershire County Council is really looking for and how to build a winning response.
The real deal: Supporting wellbeing, not just services
Gloucestershire County Council isn't just looking for counsellors.
They're looking for partners who can genuinely support the health and wellbeing of their workforce.
This framework is about much more than just providing occupational health counselling services.
It's about ensuring that the employees feel supported, valued and are able to maintain their wellbeing at work.
The agreement covers the provision of Occupational Health Counselling Services across the South West, with a framework value of £370,000 over two years, potentially extending to four.
Winning a place is the first hurdle
Remember, this is a framework.
Winning a place doesn't mean work is guaranteed.
You'll first be competing for a spot on the council's list of preferred suppliers.
Think of it as an entry ticket.
Once you're in, you'll need to prove you're the best choice for specific call-off contracts.
Think about the people you're supporting
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see a clear understanding of the workforce's needs.
What are the common stressors they face?
How does your service address these issues?
The council's employees will be looking for services that are accessible, empathetic and effective.
Evidence always beats promises
Talk is cheap.
If you have evidence that your services make a difference, use it.
- Case studies showing improved employee wellbeing
- Testimonials from past clients
- Data on service effectiveness and outcomes
- Details of your counsellors' qualifications and experience
Pay attention to what they say
Gloucestershire County Council has made it clear that supporting workforce wellbeing is a priority.
They've set the framework under the light touch category of the Procurement Act 2023.
This means they're looking for flexibility, innovation and a genuine partnership approach.
Don't underestimate the importance of flexibility
The framework runs from December 2026 to November 2028, with the option to extend to 2030.
That's a long time to maintain consistent service.
How will you handle changes in demand?
What happens when a counsellor is unavailable?
I'd want to see plans for continuity and adaptability.
Show how you'll make life easier for the council
Every service creates work for the client.
The best providers reduce that workload.
How will your management processes make life easier for Gloucestershire County Council?
What about your reporting and communication processes?
Preparing for call-offs: Be ready to respond
Once you're on the framework, work can be awarded through call-off contracts.
These might happen without further competition if you're the obvious choice.
Or they might involve a mini-competition.
Either way, being responsive and ready to act quickly is key.
My Final Thoughts
Gloucestershire County Council is focused on supporting their workforce's health and wellbeing.
This isn't just about ticking boxes for occupational health services.
It's about being a true partner in their employees' wellbeing journey.
The framework is valued at £370,000 over its initial term, extendable to four years.
Quality will be key in your written submission — it's your chance to show how you'll add real value.
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.