Tender Opportunity for IPS Employment Support Provider.
Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking providers to deliver Individual Placement and Support (IPS) employment services through the Connect to Work programme in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. The contract will provide tailored employment support to out-of-work residents facing significant barriers, including offenders and ex-offenders, people at risk of homelessness, and other disadvantaged groups. The total estimated contract value is £681,000 excluding VAT, with delivery from 27 April 2026 to 31 March 2027 and the option to extend up to 31 March 2029.
Key Dates
Enquiry deadline: 25 February 2026, 12:00pm
Tender submission deadline: 9 March 2026, 12:00pm
Estimated start date: 27 April 2026
Estimated completion date: 31 March 2027
Possible extension: Up to 31 March 2029
Initial contract duration: 11 months
Maximum duration including extensions: 2 years, 11 months
Scope of Works
Delivery of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) employment services
Provision of tailored, one-to-one employment support for disadvantaged residents
Support for three defined groups:
Offenders and ex-offenders
Individuals at risk of or experiencing homelessness
Other disadvantaged groups including carers, armed forces personnel and families, refugees, victims of domestic abuse, young people at risk of serious violence, and victims of modern slavery
Engagement with employers to secure sustainable employment outcomes
Ongoing case management and in-work support
Ideal Contractor
Experienced provider of IPS or supported employment services
Strong track record of working with disadvantaged or vulnerable groups
Understanding of barriers to employment including housing, criminal justice and social care factors
Ability to deliver person-centred, outcome-focused employment support
Effective partnership working with local services, employers and community organisations
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