ESCW(CSF)4828 Provision of overnight and related short breaks for children and young people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) accompanied by severe learning disabilities and/or behaviour which is challenging.

The London Borough of Tower Hamlets (LBTH) is seeking expressions of interest from interested organisations for the above services and / or goods.

Description: The Service Provider shall provide person centred services based on the social model of disability and on a good understanding of the principles inherent in the Children Act 1989 and its associated Regulations and Guidance; the National Service Framework for Children, Young People and Maternity Services; the Care Standards Act 2000; the Childrens and Families Act 2014; the Care Act 2014; UNICEF UKs Child Rights; and the Tower Hamlets Children and Families Plan.

The Service Provider shall commit to the following principles, which are inherent in these policies:

Best Interests of the Child

Life, Survival and Development

Human Dignity and Respect Holistic approach Self-determination and participation Non-Discrimination Independence and Inclusion Transparency and Accountability

The Service is required to deliver a service for children and young people who have the following condition:

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) accompanied by severe learning disabilities and/or behaviour which is challenging.

The required service shall provide overnight weekend short breaks, overnight holiday short breaks and two after school clubs, delivered in a Ofsted registered residential setting(s) leased by the Service Provider from the Council. The Service Provider will also run a weekly Saturday club in a childrens centre, or other community building, identified by the Council.

The service shall be provided for children from ages 5 to 18 for daytime short breaks and 6 to 18 for overnight.

The Service Provider shall actively encourage children and young people to participate in activities of their choice, individually or in a group, either independently or with a member of staff, depending on the level of need. Activities will: be fun and meet needs and preferences identified by children and young people include activities within the residential setting such as cooking or arts and crafts as well as trips out such as to the cinema or to take place in sport and fitness activities be accessible and affordable, which means they will not cost any more than similar schemes for non-disabled children and young people; and will improve children and young peoples confidence and self-esteem.

The anticipated contract start date is: Saturday, 04 July 2015

The estimated value of the contract is: 520,000Per Annum

It is also expected that provision for looked after children with a disability may be required on a spot purchase basis.

For a period of: Two years. The Council may extend the Contract Period by up to a maximum of another one year period by giving written not