Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) to NHS England South East

NHS England, the Offices of the Police & Crime Commissioner (OPCCs) and Police Forces within the South East are seeking providers who have the capability and capacity to deliver Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) services for both adults (18 years and over) and children (under 18 years).

NHS England is the lead commissioner for these services.

Previous publication concerning this procedure: 2024/S 000-005754

This procurement is divided into 5 lots and covers the following areas:

Lot 1: Hampshire (including the Isle of Wight)

Lot 2: Kent

Lot 3: Surrey

Lot 4: Sussex

Lot 5: Thames Valley (excluding Milton Keynes)

Due to its geography, it is proposed that there will be two SARC premises in Thames Valley. For all other areas, one SARC premises is proposed.

The services within scope, include core SARC provision, including, SARC management, the provision of medical and forensic examinations (both acute and non-recent), crisis support and onward referral services for people who have experienced sexual assault. It should be noted that non-recent cases will not necessarily need to be undertaken at the (accredited) SARC site.

At present, there is considerable variation in service provision across the SARCs, not only with regard to the age and needs of service users, but also in relation to activity, service specification, and referral pathways.

The recommissioning exercise will aim to increase equity of access and ensure a consistent and high standard of quality care to victims of sexual assault. The service will be delivered in line with current national standards, guidance and best practice, and at the same time meet the local needs of each Force area.

The Provider will ensure that services are delivered in an age-appropriate way for children and adults; all staff must meet the skills and competences commensurate with the role they are performing. The service should consider safeguarding, health and forensic requirements in line with current and relevant guidelines.

For the avoidance of doubt, Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) services and therapeutic provision including counselling and talking therapies, will be out of scope. However, the SARC provider/s will work closely with these services and ensure service users are referred to onward provision as appropriate.

The contract term will commence on 1st April 2025 and will be fixed for a duration of seven years.

NHS England are also commissioning SARC services within Dorset, this procurement is running to the same timeline as the South East to encourage and facilitate bidders to submit bids for both regions. Please search for 'Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARCs) in Dorset to NHS England South West' to see the relevant advert.

TUPE will apply to this procurement.

This exercise is being managed by NHS South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit (SCW) on behalf of the Commissioner(s).