Provision of a Community Link Network

What this is

North Ayrshire Council is procuring a Community Link Network service supporting adults aged 18–65 with a diagnosed learning disability. The service enables community participation, social inclusion and supported access to services and activities. Bidders must have minimum yearly turnover of £203,078 and demonstrate relevant experience via two similar contracts with references. ISO 9001, ISO 45001, and ISO 14001 (or equivalents) are required.

Key points

• ALL staff must hold PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) membership — no exceptions
• Two references required for each of two experience examples — references below score 2 trigger exclusion
• ISO 9001, ISO 45001 (or SSIP), ISO 14001 all mandatory certifications
• Minimum turnover £203,078/year — Company Watch H-Score ≤25 triggers additional scrutiny

Who can bid

Open procedure. Minimum turnover £203,078/year (3 years). Two similar-value examples (min £200,000 each) with references within last 3 years — only first two evaluated, and references below score 2 trigger exclusion. ISO 9001, ISO 45001 (or SSIP), ISO 14001 all required. ALL staff must hold PVG membership. EL £5m, PL £10m, valid motor insurance mandatory.

• 203078

How it is scored

Quality 75% · Price 25% 75% Quality and 25% Price. Quality assessment covers service delivery methodology, staffing, community link approach, and management systems.

Money

Estimated value £304,617 excluding VAT over 36 months.

How to submit

Tenders submitted electronically via Public Contracts Scotland portal.

Clarifications

Clarification questions via Public Contracts Scotland messaging prior to deadline of 15 June 2026 at 12:00.

Contract period

36 months, no renewal stated. Service supports adults 18–65 with a diagnosed learning disability across North Ayrshire.

Classification

CPV 85000000 — Health and social work services 85300000 — Social work and related services85310000 — Social work services85312000 — Social work services without accommodation ScotlandSouth West ScotlandAyrshireNorth Ayrshire