PROVISION OF OPTOMETRY SERVICES FOR HMP CARDIFF

Tender description

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is seeking a provider to deliver comprehensive optometry services at HMP Cardiff, including eye examinations, diagnosis and management of visual and ocular conditions, provision of spectacles where required, and referrals to secondary care. The service will support equitable access to high-quality eye care for prisoners and contribute to improved health and well-being outcomes within the custodial setting. Lot 1: Cardiff and Vale University Health Board intends to award a contract under the Most Suitable Provider Process for the provision of comprehensive optometry services at HMP Cardiff. This is an existing service with an existing provider that will continue to provide timely access to routine and clinically necessary eye care for the prison population. The intention is to award the contract to an existing provider, subject to completion of the Provider Selection Regime (PSR) requirements and approval processes. The contract is intended to commence on 01/12/2026 and continue for an initial period of one year, with the option, at the Health Board's discretion, to extend for up to two further periods of 12 months. The service will provide routine sight tests, assessment, diagnosis and management of visual and ocular conditions, provision of spectacles where clinically required, and referral to secondary care ophthalmology services where appropriate. The provider will deliver regular on-site clinics within HMP Cardiff and will supply all necessary equipment, consumables and professional expertise required to undertake examinations and deliver patient-centred optometry care. The provider will be expected to work collaboratively with prison healthcare teams to support effective care pathways, continuity of care, accurate clinical record keeping and timely referral management. The service aims to improve visual health outcomes for prisoners, many of whom present with unmet eye care needs upon entry into custody. By supporting the early identification, treatment and ongoing management of eye conditions, the service contributes to improved health, wellbeing, participation in education and rehabilitation activities, and overall quality of life within the prison environment. Services will be delivered in accordance with all relevant professional, clinical and regulatory requirements, including applicable standards of the General Optical Council and NHS Wales policies. The contract will be subject to appropriate contract management and performance monitoring arrangements to ensure the delivery of safe, effective and high-quality services throughout the contract term.