Section 136 Observations

The provider delivers a dedicated Section 136 Observation Service supporting individuals detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act. The service provides:

• Safe and compliant observation
• 24/7 staffing cover where required
• Close working with Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs), Section 12 doctors, police, and acute trusts
• The service operates in accordance with the Mental Health Act 1983

The provider maintains clinical governance arrangements, including:

• Observation protocols aligned with national guidance
• Appropriate risk assessment protocols
• Escalation pathways

The provider complies with the Mental Health Act 1983 and Code of Practice and is CQC registered and integrated within local crisis pathways.

The workforce is trained in:

• delivering the Section 136 Observation Service
• crisis management
• prevention and management of violence and aggression (PMVA)
• trauma-informed care
• safeguarding (adult and child where applicable)

Section 136 observation support model is designed to provide safe, responsive and person-centred care while enabling clinical teams to focus on assessment and treatment

The provider delivers a dedicated Section 136 Observation Service supporting individuals detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act. The service provides:

• Safe and compliant observation
• 24/7 staffing cover where required
• Close working with Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs), Section 12 doctors, police, and acute trusts
• The service operates in accordance with the Mental Health Act 1983

Over the coming months the service will be formally evaluated and future delivery model considered. Therefore, there is a need to extend this contract so there is no break in service for patients and avoid adding pressure on the emergency healthcare system.

This is a Provider Selection Regime (PSR) intention to award notice. The awarding of this contract is subject to the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023. For the avoidance of doubt, the provisions of the Procurement Act 2023 do not apply to this award. The standstill period begins on the day after the publication of this notice. Representations by providers must be made to decision makers by 31st March 2026 to [email protected].

This contract has not yet formally been awarded; this notice serves as an intention to award under the PSR.

There has been no substantial change to the nature or cost of the service delivered.

The existing provider is satisfying the original contract and will likely satisfy the proposed contract to a sufficient standard with the weighting 100

Value of the Contract - £341,721.32

The Service is intended to be provided; 01/04/26 to 31/07/26