Interaction Service 2016-2021

Tender description

Portsmouth City Council, 'the Authority', is inviting tenders from suitably qualified organisations to deliver the Interaction Service. The aims of the Interaction service are to promote the social inclusion of adults experiencing enduring mental health problems by providing opportunities for participation in sport and other health promoting recreational activities, aiding personal development and supporting individuals to integrate into the wider community. The decision to outsource the service to the voluntary sector has been made because it is felt that this will offer service users better opportunities for integration into mainstream activities and a greater flexibility in funding and delivery. The Authority is targeting to have awarded the contract by 1st February 2016 with a subsequent commencement date of 1st April 2016. The Contract period will be for five years and the value of the contract is £150,000 over five years. The contract will be funded via the following yearly instalments; Year one £50,000 Year two £40,000 Year three £30,000 Year four £20,000 Year five £10,000 The expectation is that the service will be maintained at least at its current level for the first year, during which period plans can be developed, in consultation with service users, for development of the programme, pathways into mainstream provision, development of a peer led approach and new ways of delivery. It is also recognised that there are external sources of funding available to third sector organisations which would help sustain the key elements of the service.