Lancashire County Council Contract Notice for Connect to Work
Summary
Lancashire County Council has published a contract notice for the 'Connect to Work' program, a national scheme aimed at helping residents with health conditions and disabilities find sustained employment. The notice details four lots for services across different regions of Lancashire.
What changed
Lancashire County Council has issued a contract notice for the 'Connect to Work' program, a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) initiative focused on supported employment for residents with health conditions and disabilities. The notice, published on March 13, 2026, outlines four distinct lots for service provision across East, North, and Central West Lancashire, as well as a Supported Employment Quality Framework for the entire county.
This notice serves as an announcement of a procurement opportunity. Interested suppliers, including INGEUS UK LIMITED, MAXIMUS UK SERVICES LIMITED, and STANDGUIDE LIMITED, should review the full tender details to understand the scope, requirements, and bidding process. Specific deadlines for submission or further action are not detailed in this notice, but it indicates the commencement of a procurement procedure under the Procurement Act 2023.
What to do next
- Review the 'Connect to Work' contract notice for potential opportunities or implications.
- Identify relevant suppliers and other organisations involved in the procurement.
- Monitor the find-tender.service.gov.uk portal for further updates or related notices.
Source document (simplified)
Contract
Connect to Work
- Lancashire County Council UK7: Contract details notice - Procurement Act 2023 - view information about notice types
Notice identifier: 2026/S 000-023238
Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-05167a (view related notices)
Published 13 March 2026, 7:16pm
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Contents
Scope Lots (4)
- Lot 1. Individual Placement and Support: East
- Lot 2. Individual Placement and Support: North
- Lot 3. Individual Placement and Support: Central West
- Lot 4. Supported Employment Quality Framework: Lancashire
Contracts (4)
- Contract 5. Lot 1. Individual Placement and Support: East
- Contract 6. Lot 2: Individual Placement and Support: North
- Contract 7. Lot 3. Individual Placement and Support: Central West
- Contract 8. Lot 4: Supported Employment Quality Framework: Lancashire
Other information Procedure Suppliers (3)
- INGEUS UK LIMITED
- MAXIMUS UK SERVICES LIMITED
- STANDGUIDE LIMITED
Contracting authority Other organisations (2)
- SOCIAL VALUE PORTAL LTD
- BLACKPOOL COUNCIL
Contact organisation
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Reference
CR/CORP/LCC/25/202
Description
Connect to Work is a national scheme led by the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and is a supported employment programme targeted at specific groups of residents to enable sustained employment.
The programme is focused on reversing the growth in Economic Inactivity and is targeted towards residents with health conditions and disabilities, as well as a number of groups to face barriers to gaining sustained employment, such as care leavers, carers, refugees, ex-offenders, and veterans, aligning with the Lancashire Economic Inactivity insights report, published in 2023.
The Authority is seeking secure a new multi-lotted contract for the external provision of IPS (Individual Placement Support) and SEQF (Supported Employment Quality Framework) as part of the Authority's Connect to Work project.
Lot 1 is based on IPS for the East geographical area of Lancashire. (Including delivery in the districts of Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle, Ribble Valley and Rossendale.)
Lot 2 is based on IPS for the North geographical area of Lancashire. (Including delivery in the districts of Fylde, Lancaster and Wyre .)
Lot 3 is based on IPS for the Central & West geographical area of Lancashire. (Including delivery in the districts of, Chorley, Preston, South Ribble and West Lancashire.)
Lot 4 is based on SEQF for the geographical area of Lancashire.
Lot 1. Individual Placement and Support: East
Description
Connect to Work is a national scheme led by the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and is a supported employment programme targeted at specific groups of residents to enable sustained employment.
The programme is focused on reversing the growth in Economic Inactivity and is targeted towards residents with health conditions and disabilities, as well as a number of groups to face barriers to gaining sustained employment, such as care leavers, carers, refugees, ex-offenders, and veterans, aligning with the Lancashire Economic Inactivity insights report, published in 2023.
The Authority is seeking secure a new multi-lotted contract for the external provision of IPS (Individual Placement Support) and SEQF (Supported Employment Quality Framework) as part of the Authority's Connect to Work project.
Lot 1 is based on IPS for the East geographical area of Lancashire. (Including delivery in the districts of Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle, Ribble Valley and Rossendale.)
The initial term of the contract commences on 5th September 2025 to 31st March 2029, with an option to extend for a further 12 months.
September to early October 2025 is anticipated to be the mobilisation period for service provider(s)
Delivery of support to allocated participants is estimated to commence in on the 6th October 2025 until 31st March 2029 as part of the initial contract terms, with option to extend this contract for a further 12 months.
Lot 2. Individual Placement and Support: North
Description
Connect to Work is a national scheme led by the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and is a supported employment programme targeted at specific groups of residents to enable sustained employment.
The programme is focused on reversing the growth in Economic Inactivity and is targeted towards residents with health conditions and disabilities, as well as a number of groups to face barriers to gaining sustained employment, such as care leavers, carers, refugees, ex-offenders, and veterans, aligning with the Lancashire Economic Inactivity insights report, published in 2023.
The Authority is seeking secure a new multi-lotted contract for the external provision of IPS (Individual Placement Support) and SEQF (Supported Employment Quality Framework) as part of the Authority's Connect to Work project.
Lot 2 is based on IPS for the North geographical area of Lancashire. (Including delivery in the districts of Fylde, Lancaster and Wyre .)
The initial term of the contract commences on 5th September 2025 to 31st March 2029, with an option to extend for a further 12 months.
September to early October 2025 is anticipated to be the mobilisation period for service provider(s)
Delivery of support to allocated participants is estimated to commence in on the 6th October 2025 until 31st March 2029 as part of the initial contract terms, with option to extend this contract for a further 12 months.
Lot 3. Individual Placement and Support: Central West
Description
Connect to Work is a national scheme led by the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and is a supported employment programme targeted at specific groups of residents to enable sustained employment.
The programme is focused on reversing the growth in Economic Inactivity and is targeted towards residents with health conditions and disabilities, as well as a number of groups to face barriers to gaining sustained employment, such as care leavers, carers, refugees, ex-offenders, and veterans, aligning with the Lancashire Economic Inactivity insights report, published in 2023.
The Authority is seeking secure a new multi-lotted contract for the external provision of IPS (Individual Placement Support) and SEQF (Supported Employment Quality Framework) as part of the Authority's Connect to Work project.
Lot 3 is based on IPS for the Central & West geographical area of Lancashire. (Including delivery in the districts of, Chorley, Preston, South Ribble and West Lancashire.)
The initial term of the contract commences on 5th September 2025 to 31st March 2029, with an option to extend for a further 12 months.
September to early October 2025 is anticipated to be the mobilisation period for service provider(s)
Delivery of support to allocated participants is estimated to commence in on the 6th October 2025 until 31st March 2029 as part of the initial contract terms, with option to extend this contract for a further 12 months.
Lot 4. Supported Employment Quality Framework: Lancashire
Description
Connect to Work is a national scheme led by the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and is a supported employment programme targeted at specific groups of residents to enable sustained employment.
The programme is focused on reversing the growth in Economic Inactivity and is targeted towards residents with health conditions and disabilities, as well as a number of groups to face barriers to gaining sustained employment, such as care leavers, carers, refugees, ex-offenders, and veterans, aligning with the Lancashire Economic Inactivity insights report, published in 2023.
The Authority is seeking secure a new multi-lotted contract for the external provision of IPS (Individual Placement Support) and SEQF (Supported Employment Quality Framework) as part of the Authority's Connect to Work project.
Lot 4 is based on SEQF for the geographical area of Lancashire.
The initial term of the contract commences on 5th September 2025 to 31st March 2029, with an option to extend for a further 12 months.
September 2025 to March 2026 is anticipated to be the mobilisation period for service provider(s)
Delivery of support to allocated participants is estimated to commence on the 1st April 2026 until 31st March 2029 as part of the initial contract terms, with option to extend this contract for a further 12 months.
Contract 5. Lot 1. Individual Placement and Support: East
Lots
Lot 1. Individual Placement and Support: East
Supplier
Contract value
- £7,336,781 excluding VAT
- £8,804,137 including VAT Above the relevant threshold
Date signed
23 February 2026
Contract dates
- 23 February 2026 to 31 March 2029
- Possible extension to 31 March 2030
- 4 years, 1 month, 9 days Description of possible extension:
The Authority has the option to extend this agreement beyond the Initial Term by a further period up to a maximum of 12 months in addition to the Initial Term.
Main procurement category
Services
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
The options are the right for the Authority to extend the agreement beyond the Initial Term as stated above.
CPV classifications
Business services: law, marketing, consulting, recruitment, printing and security
Contract locations
- UKD41 - Blackburn with Darwen
- UKD46 - East Lancashire
Key performance indicators
| Name | Description | Reporting frequency |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Job Starts | At least 50% of total Programme Starts to achieve first earnings (Out of Work Participants).
To be achieved up to 456 calendar days from the Participant's Programme Start date, or if extended up to 638...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - Out of Work | At least 40% Out of Work Participants of total Programme Starts to achieve a Lower Threshold Job Outcome. Earnings threshold calculation (9 hours x 13 weeks x NLW) and Self-Employed equivalent...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - In Work Retention | At least 80% of In Work Retention Support Participants to achieve a Higher Threshold Job Outcome (higher only - Employed and Self-Employed Job Outcomes). Earnings threshold calculation (18 hours x 26...
Show full description | 3 months |
Signed contract documents
Connect to Work Contract - Lot 1 IPS-East - Find a Tender.pdf
Contract 6. Lot 2: Individual Placement and Support: North
Lots
Lot 2. Individual Placement and Support: North
Supplier
Contract value
- £4,430,067 excluding VAT
- £5,316,080 including VAT Above the relevant threshold
Date signed
12 February 2026
Contract dates
- 12 February 2026 to 31 March 2029
- Possible extension to 31 March 2030
- 4 years, 1 month, 20 days Description of possible extension:
The Authority has the option to extend this agreement beyond the Initial Term by a further period up to a maximum of 12 months in addition to the Initial Term.
Main procurement category
Services
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
The options are the right for the Authority to extend the agreement beyond the Initial Term as stated above.
CPV classifications
Business services: law, marketing, consulting, recruitment, printing and security
Contract locations
- UKD42 - Blackpool
- UKD44 - Lancaster and Wyre
Key performance indicators
| Name | Description | Reporting frequency |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Job Starts | At least 50% of total Programme Starts to achieve first earnings (Out of Work Participants).
To be achieved up to 456 calendar days from the Participant's Programme Start date, or if extended up to 638...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - Out of Work | At least 40% Out of Work Participants of total Programme Starts to achieve a Lower Threshold Job Outcome. Earnings threshold calculation (9 hours x 13 weeks x NLW) and Self-Employed equivalent...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - In Work Retention | At least 80% of In Work Retention Support Participants to achieve a Higher Threshold Job Outcome (higher only - Employed and Self-Employed Job Outcomes). Earnings threshold calculation (18 hours x 26...
Show full description | 3 months |
Signed contract documents
Connect to Work Contract - Lot 2 IPS - North - Find a Tender.pdf
Contract 7. Lot 3. Individual Placement and Support: Central West
Lots
Lot 3. Individual Placement and Support: Central West
Supplier
Contract value
- £6,377,138 excluding VAT
- £7,652,566 including VAT Above the relevant threshold
Date signed
23 February 2026
Contract dates
- 23 February 2026 to 31 March 2029
- Possible extension to 31 March 2030
- 4 years, 1 month, 9 days Description of possible extension:
The Authority has the option to extend this agreement beyond the Initial Term by a further period up to a maximum of 12 months in addition to the Initial Term.
Main procurement category
Services
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
The options are the right for the Authority to extend the agreement beyond the Initial Term as stated above.
CPV classifications
Business services: law, marketing, consulting, recruitment, printing and security
Contract locations
- UKD45 - Mid Lancashire
- UKD47 - Chorley and West Lancashire
Key performance indicators
| Name | Description | Reporting frequency |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Job Starts | At least 50% of total Programme Starts to achieve first earnings (Out of Work Participants).
To be achieved up to 456 calendar days from the Participant's Programme Start date, or if extended up to 638...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - Out of Work | At least 40% Out of Work Participants of total Programme Starts to achieve a Lower Threshold Job Outcome. Earnings threshold calculation (9 hours x 13 weeks x NLW) and Self-Employed equivalent...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - In Work Retention | At least 80% of In Work Retention Support Participants to achieve a Higher Threshold Job Outcome (higher only - Employed and Self-Employed Job Outcomes). Earnings threshold calculation (18 hours x 26...
Show full description | 3 months |
Signed contract documents
Connect to Work Contract - Lot 3 IPS-East - Find a Tender.pdf
Contract 8. Lot 4: Supported Employment Quality Framework: Lancashire
Lots
Lot 4. Supported Employment Quality Framework: Lancashire
Supplier
Contract value
- £5,828,063 excluding VAT
- £6,993,676 including VAT Above the relevant threshold
Date signed
24 February 2026
Contract dates
- 24 February 2026 to 31 March 2029
- Possible extension to 31 March 2030
- 4 years, 1 month, 8 days Description of possible extension:
The Authority has the option to extend this agreement beyond the Initial Term by a further period up to a maximum of 12 months in addition to the Initial Term.
Main procurement category
Services
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
The options are the right for the Authority to extend the agreement beyond the Initial Term as stated above.
CPV classifications
Business services: law, marketing, consulting, recruitment, printing and security
Contract locations
- UKD4 - Lancashire
Key performance indicators
| Name | Description | Reporting frequency |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Job Starts | At least 50% of total Programme Starts to achieve first earnings (Out of Work Participants).
To be achieved up to 456 calendar days from the Participant's Programme Start date, or if extended up to 638...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - Out of Work | At least 40% Out of Work Participants of total Programme Starts to achieve a Lower Threshold Job Outcome. Earnings threshold calculation (9 hours x 13 weeks x NLW) and Self-Employed equivalent...
Show full description | 3 months |
| Job Outcomes - In Work Retention | At least 80% of In Work Retention Support Participants to achieve a Higher Threshold Job Outcome (higher only - Employed and Self-Employed Job Outcomes). Earnings threshold calculation (18 hours x 26...
Show full description | 3 months |
Signed contract documents
Connect to Work Contract - Lot 4 - SEQF Lancashire.pdf
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Suppliers
INGEUS UK LIMITED
- Companies House: 04320853
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQWB-9993-TBMX Second Floor, 66-68 East Smithfield
London
E1W 1AW
United Kingdom
Email: trackers@ingeus.co.uk
Website: http://ingeus.co.uk
Region: UKI42 - Tower Hamlets
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Supported employment provider: No
Public service mutual: No
Contract 5. Lot 1. Individual Placement and Support: East
Contract 7. Lot 3. Individual Placement and Support: Central West
MAXIMUS UK SERVICES LIMITED
- Companies House: 09072343
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PTZH-8512-MRCL 18c Meridian East
Leicester
LE19 1WZ
United Kingdom
Email: tendertracking@maximusuk.co.uk
Website: http://www.maximusuk.co.uk
Region: UKF22 - Leicestershire CC and Rutland
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Supported employment provider: No
Public service mutual: No
Contract 8. Lot 4: Supported Employment Quality Framework: Lancashire
STANDGUIDE LIMITED
- Companies House: 02563257
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PXVG-4195-YZCQ Unit G.01 Clarence Arcade
Ashton-Under-Lyne
OL6 7PT
United Kingdom
Email: businessdevelopment@standguide.co.uk
Website: http://www.standguide.co.uk
Region: UKD35 - Greater Manchester South East
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Supported employment provider: No
Public service mutual: No
Contract 6. Lot 2: Individual Placement and Support: North
Contracting authority
Lancashire County Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PBBJ-2179-TNXM PO Box 100, County Hall
Preston
PR1 0LD
United Kingdom
Email: contractscorporate@lancashire.gov.uk
Region: UKD45 - Mid Lancashire
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government
Other organisations
These organisations are carrying out the procurement, or part of it, on behalf of the contracting authorities.
SOCIAL VALUE PORTAL LTD
Summary of their role in this procurement: Evaluation of Social Value
- Companies House: 09197997
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQHH-4489-TLZM Tintagel House
London
SE1 7TY
United Kingdom
Email: sales@socialvalueportal.com
Website: https://www.socialvalueportal.com /
Region: UKI45 - Lambeth
BLACKPOOL COUNCIL
Summary of their role in this procurement: Assistance in tender evaluation
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHHB-5249-RZVD PO Box 11, Town Hall
Blackpool
FY1 1NB
United Kingdom
Email: FTSprocurementnotices@blackpool.gov.uk
Website: https://www.blackpool.gov.uk
Region: UKD42 - Blackpool
Contact organisation
Contact Lancashire County Council for any enquiries.
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