402_16 Interpretation, Translation and Transcription Services Framework

ESPO (in partnership with YPO) is seeking to establish a framework agreement with a number of service providers for the provision of interpretation, translation and transcription services. The key aim of the framework will be to promote cost savings and create efficiencies by providing customers access to pre-approved service providers whom they may appoint using a simple and streamlined procurement process. To reflect the different types of interpretation, translation and transcription services required, the framework will be divided into the following lots: - Lot 1 – Face to face interpretation services (verbal) - Lot 2 – Face to face interpretation services (non-verbal) - Lot 3 – Telephone interpretation services - Lot 4 – Video interpretation services (verbal) - Lot 5 – Video interpretation services (non-verbal) - Lot 6 – Translation, transcription and additional services - Lot 7 – Managed services for all interpretation, translation and transcription services.

Although most of the lots under the framework will require service providers to supply services throughout all regions of the United Kingdom, since face to face interpretation services (both verbal and non-verbal) are dependent on the location of customers and their respective assignments, lots 1 and 2 above will be further divided into geographical sub-lots (please see the Invitation to Tender for further details).

The number of service providers offered a place on the framework will depend in part upon the number and nature of bids received, but the objective will be to ensure that the framework offers a choice of at least 6 to 10service providers within each lot/sub-lot. Service providers are invited to bid for one, several or all of the lots and sub-lots as they wish.

The framework agreement has the option to extend for up to a further 24 months.

Please note that although an e-Auction will not be used in establishing this framework, an e-Auction process may be used to award subsequent call off contracts following the reopening of competition among the parties to the framework agreement.

As Central Purchasing Bodies as defined by the EU Procurement Directive 2014/24/EU, the Framework Agreement is open for use by the following classifications of user throughout all administrative regions of the UK: Local Authority Councils; Educational Establishments (including Academies); Central Government Departments and Agencies and Local Government Departments and Agencies; Police, Fire & Rescue and Coastguard Emergency Services; NHS and HSC Bodies, including Ambulance Services; Registered Charities; Registered Social Landlords; Any Public Body established by or under the Scotland Act 1998 or any Act of the Scottish Parliament. Full details of the classification of end user establishments and geographical areas is available on: http://www.espo.org/About-us-%281%29/FAQs/Legal