NHS England and the UK Health Security Agency have created a toolkit of resources to raise awareness of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) prevention, symptom recognition and treatment which includes advice on how and when to seek help.
The Council has been carefully considering the timing of the re-opening of the Care and Support at Home (2024) Framework. While the original plan was to re-open the framework for new applications in October 2025, in line with the original Invitation to Tender, recent developments have prompted a review of the timeframes. The framework will still be re-opened, however this is now going to be delayed.
There has been lots of change for the sector both nationally and locally over the last couple of years, and indeed we are moving into a period of even more considerable change on the horizon for Local Authorities and for Adult Social Care. In particular over the next few months we are conscious of the government’s consultation on a fair pay agreement process for adult social care (closing January 2026), and the Low Pay Commission's consultation on the National Living Wage rate for 2026/27. We are also continuing to reflect on impacts of changes in International Recruitment regulations, and approaching winter with the challenges that presents both for providers and for the wider health and social care system.
Some of the economic, legislation and political changes we have seen and indeed the local changes implemented in the Framework, have all had an impact on the care at home market. Hence, whilst we recognise there is strong interest from providers not currently contracted on the Framework, we feel it is important in our duty under the Care Act to ensure a quality range of services in the market, to take stock of the past and imminent changes that will impact on this market and particularly on delivery of the Framework.
Therefore, although the Invitation to Tender anticipated re-opening the Framework annually on or around the anniversary of the Framework, the Council believes it is in the best interest of both providers and customers to re-open the Framework around April 2026. This will allow time for greater clarity on some of the most imminent changes in the economic and policy landscape and to continue to understand trends and impacts in local markets.
We understand that this decision may be disappointing for providers eager to join the Framework and we want to assure you that your interest and commitment to supporting vulnerable people in our communities is deeply valued. We welcome feedback from providers who may wish to bid in the future, which can be submitted via AdultsCommissioning@westsussex.gov.uk.
Thank you for your continued dedication and support.
