NHS England South West - Psychology and Clinical Leadership for Services Supporting Adults in Avon and Somerset who have experienced Sexual Violence

This notice is placed to set out NHS England South West's (the Commissioner's) intention to follow the Most Suitable Provider Process.
NHS England South West is commissioning specialist psychology and therapy provision, clinical leadership and workforce development for services supporting adults who have experienced sexual violence. This provision is for the area of Avon and Somerset, to continue the work of the 'Avon and Somerset Enhanced Mental Health Pathfinder' which has been running since 2022. The intention is to move from 'proof of concept' stage to an ongoing model of delivery based on proven outcomes. The Commissioner, is seeking a provider/s who are suitable and capable to continue the delivery of this work. Scope: Specialist psychology and therapy provision To deliver interventions to people who have experienced serious sexual assault within the last four months, including people who have suffered significant previous trauma and abuse, present with multiple and complex vulnerabilities and have current or past involvement with mental health services. Referrals come directly through the Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Bristol. Specialist psychology and therapy provision will be for people aged 18 and over. Scope: Clinical leadership and workforce development Specialist psychologists and therapists to work collaboratively with the whole pathway, contributing to leadership and strategic direction as well as clinical collaboration, development and training. Offer consultation, case discussion and formulation for therapists working with trauma in both VCSE and statutory sectors. Workforce development and training will include practitioners from across the South West. The contract will commence on 1st April 2025. The contract will expire on 30th September 2029. Those delivering the services must be qualified and registered with the relevant bodies, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). The provider must have experience of delivering services within the sexual violence support services pathway within Avon and Somerset, and have established links and networks to enable collaborative working and integrated delivery. The Provider must be able to mobilise by the contract start date. Services will be contracted using the latest version of the NHS Standard Contract. This exercise is being carried out by NHS South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit (SCW) on behalf of the Commissioner.