Specialist Dyslexia Assessment and Coaching Service
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The heart of this tender is support, not just assessment
When NHS England seeks a service for dyslexia assessment and coaching, they're not just looking for technical competence.
They're looking for a partner to support doctors and dentists as they navigate a demanding training environment.
Yes, the contract involves providing diagnostic assessments.
But it's about much more than that.
The real service is about enabling these professionals to thrive in their roles despite the challenges dyslexia presents.
The contract covers London & Kent, Surrey & Sussex, with a value of £275,000. It's essential that your response reflects not just what you do, but how you make life easier for those in training.
Think about what your service means for a doctor in training
Imagine being a doctor or dentist in training.
You're already under immense pressure.
Now add the challenge of dyslexia.
Your service has to offer more than just a diagnosis.
It needs to provide ongoing coaching that helps these individuals manage their condition and succeed.
I'd focus on how your service supports these professionals in practical, meaningful ways.
Don't just describe your process. Show the impact.
It's easy to get caught up in detailing your assessment methods and coaching techniques.
But what NHS England will really want to know is the impact of your work.
How do you measure success?
What difference have you made in the past for similar clients?
I'd include specific examples and case studies that demonstrate real-world outcomes.
Pay attention to what they say
NHS England is clear about the importance of quality in this tender.
The notice states the need for a service that can deliver both diagnostic assessments and ongoing coaching.
This isn't just about ticking boxes.
They want a service that genuinely improves the lives of those they support.
Your submission should emphasise quality and the tangible benefits of your approach.
Remember who you're trying to convince
The people evaluating your bid will likely be thinking about the end users – the doctors and dentists – and how your service can help them.
If I were writing this tender, I'd focus on the human side of the service.
How does your approach reduce stress and improve performance for these professionals?
Evidence always outshines assumptions
One thing I learned from my time in the public sector is that assumptions don't carry weight.
Evidence does.
If you've successfully supported other professionals with dyslexia, now's the time to highlight it.
- Testimonials from past clients
- Data showing improvement in client outcomes
- Examples of innovative strategies you've implemented
These are the kinds of evidence that will make your submission stand out.
Consistency is the hardest thing to deliver
This contract isn't just about starting strong.
It's about maintaining high standards over the entire term.
I'd want to see a plan in your submission for how you'll ensure consistent quality, even when things get challenging.
Consider detailing:
- Your approach to staff training and development
- How you handle unexpected challenges, like staff absences
- Regular performance reviews and client feedback mechanisms
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
This isn't just a service contract.
It's a chance to make a real difference in the lives of doctors and dentists dealing with dyslexia.
Every part of your submission should circle back to this core idea.
How does your service improve their day-to-day experience and long-term success?
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on the diagnostic process without addressing ongoing support
- Use jargon without explaining its relevance
- Lack evidence of past success in similar settings
- Overlook the importance of client feedback and adaptation
- Fail to address how you'll maintain quality over the contract term
- Ignore the specific needs of doctors and dentists in training
- Rely on generic promises instead of specific plans
- Miss the human impact of your service
My Final Thoughts
NHS England is looking for a partner who understands the real challenges faced by doctors and dentists with dyslexia.
They're not just buying a service; they're investing in better outcomes for these professionals.
With a contract value of £275,000, there's significant weight on the quality of your submission.
Emphasise your ability to provide not just assessments, but meaningful, ongoing support.
Focus on quality and evidence – that's what will set you apart.
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.