LGA children's improvement - Health Engagement Advisors (HEA) with notice
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
This isn't just about hiring advisors
When I look at this tender, I see a focus on transformation.
The Local Government Association (LGA) isn't just hiring two Health Engagement Advisors.
They're looking for partners to drive improvement in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services.
You're not just providing advice.
You're shaping the future of SEND services alongside councils and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs).
The contract runs from 21 September 2026 to 31 March 2027, with an option to extend to 2028.
Think about the impact on SEND leadership
The programme's core is building leadership capacity and capability.
This isn't about delivering workshops.
It's about equipping leaders with the skills and confidence they need for SEND reform.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd look for evidence of experience at a senior strategic ICB level.
The kind that has had a tangible impact on SEND services.
Pay attention to what they say
The notice is clear on experience requirements.
Bidders must have recent experience at a senior strategic ICB level.
Think of roles like a Designated Clinical Officer (DCO) or Chief Nurse for SEND.
This isn't negotiable.
Without this, your bid won't stand a chance.
Don't just talk about qualifications
Many will focus on their qualifications and roles.
But that's not enough.
What will set you apart is how you've used that experience to create change.
I'd want to see case studies or examples where your strategic oversight improved SEND services.
Show how you'll engage virtually and face-to-face
This role requires both virtual and face-to-face engagement.
Don't underestimate the importance of flexibility.
How will you maintain the same level of engagement and impact, whether you're on a video call or in a council meeting?
That's what I'd be explaining in my submission.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
Every bid is about the people affected.
In this case, it's about children with SEND and their families.
I'd keep asking myself, "How will my involvement improve their experiences?"
This question should guide every answer you write.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that evidence always beats promises.
If you've worked on similar programmes, show it.
Use evidence like:
- Case studies demonstrating impact
- Testimonials from previous roles
- Data showing improvements in SEND services
- Examples of strategic leadership in action
Remember the role of collaboration
You're not working in isolation.
The successful advisors will partner with councils, ICBs, NHS England and others.
How will you foster collaboration?
What strategies will you employ to ensure all parties are aligned and working towards common goals?
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on qualifications without evidence of impact
- Ignore the requirement for recent senior strategic ICB experience
- Underestimate the importance of both virtual and face-to-face engagement
- Fail to demonstrate collaborative working with councils and ICBs
- Provide generic answers that don't address the specific aims of SEND improvement
- Lack a clear plan for how you'll engage with stakeholders
My Final Thoughts
The LGA is looking for more than just advisors.
They're seeking partners who can help transform SEND services through strong leadership.
The contract is valued at £42,000 per advisor for up to 60 days of work.
Quality matters here, and your written submission will make all the difference.
If I were bidding, I'd focus on demonstrating strategic impact, flexibility in engagement and a commitment to improving the lives of those with SEND.
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.