YPO - 001322 - Children's Homes Solution

YPO is establishing a procurement solution to enable Contracting Authorities to commission Children’s and Young People’s Residential Homes delivered within a family‑style setting. The solution will allow Authorities to secure exclusive use of an entire Children’s Home, rather than purchasing individual placements dispersed across a region. The framework is designed to support strategic commissioning approaches that improve outcomes for children, strengthen sufficiency and market shaping, and deliver improved value for money. The model aligns with regional ambitions, including the development of Regional Care Cooperatives, and will facilitate call‑offs at both regional and local levels. The procurement aims to foster long‑term, collaborative relationships between Commissioners and Providers. It seeks to address the differing perspectives, risks, and challenges that influence the delivery of high‑quality homes for Children and Young People. The objective is to secure local, stable, and supportive homes that are embedded within a wider system of wrap‑around provision, enabling improved long‑term outcomes. This represents a shift away from the traditional purchase of individual placements through spot purchasing or standard frameworks. Instead, the framework focuses on commissioning whole homes, ensuring that the home, its staff, and the children living there are supported by coordinated local services. Contracting Authorities will be able to undertake a Competitive Selection Process at call‑off stage, based on their specific requirements. YPO intends to award an open 8‑year Framework Agreement, which will allow new Providers to join throughout its duration, supporting flexibility, market development, and ongoing sufficiency planning.