Advice and Mediation for Foster Carers

Concepts

• social work
• norwich
• mediation service
• foster carers
• carers
• many carers
• advice
• mediation
• the fostering service
• each fostering service

Location

Norwich

Description

Norfolk County Council wishes to award a contract to a Provider to deliver an independent advice and mediation service which can be purchased by fostering services in England. It is designed for the following service users: foster carers, their families and members of the fostering service's staff.

Total Quantity or Scope

It is designed for the following service users: foster carers, their families and members of the fostering service's staff.The service does not seek to replace the support provided by the fostering service to the carer. It aims to complement it; therefore, it is essential that ongoing communication is maintained for swift resolution of any issues that may originate from either appropriate challenge, miscommunication or issues around practice on any part. The often isolated and sometimes vulnerable position of many carers means that they need access to an independent source of advice and support in addition to that provided by the fostering team.Advice and mediation workers advise carers by phone, letter, e-mail or in person about any aspect of fostering that requires independent, confidential advice. If allegations or complaints have been received about carers, advice and mediation workers prioritise working with them. As well as listening to and advising carers and their families, workers may support carers to interpret and respond to written material.As part of their job, advice and mediation workers work with each fostering service to ensure that carers are aware of the service and encouraged to use it.

Renewal Options

The initial contract period is for 36 months with the option to extend for a further 84 months. The value is based on entire duration of the contract including any extensions.

Award Criteria

CPV Codes

• 85300000 - Social work and related services
• 85312310 - Guidance services
• 85312000 - Social work services without accommodation

Indicators

• Bids should cover the whole contract.
• Renewals are available.
• Professional qualifications are sought.
• Award on basis of price and quality.

Other Information

This procurement will be managed electronically via the Council's e-procurement system. To participate in this procurement, applicants must first be registered on https://in-tendhost.co.uk/norfolkcc (https://in-tendhost.co.uk/norfolkcc) Full instructions for registration and use of the system can be found at https://in-tendhost.co.uk/norfolkcc/aspx/BuyerProfiles (https://in-tendhost.co.uk/norfolkcc/aspx/BuyerProfile). Once registered you will be able to see the procurement project under 'tenders' section and 'express an interest' to view the documentation. If you encounter any difficulties whilst using the system you can contact the In-tend support team by phoning +448442728810 or emailing support@in-tend.co.uk.