Prison Radio Communication Systems - Early Engagement Notice

The purpose of this Notice is to inform the market of the potential opportunity for the provision of a managed Prison Radio Communication Systems service and the MoJ's intention to engage with potential suppliers through a further competition using Lot 5 (Blue Light Solutions) of the Vertical Application Solutions Framework (RM6259).

The requirement is to take over the maintenance and support of the MoJ's existing fully managed break-fix maintenance and service support contract for all the UHF TETRA radio systems and all associated equipment (including radio terminals) deployed across the England & Wales public prison estate until such time an equipment refresh maybe undertaken.

There are over 100 HMPPS publicly managed establishments using TETRA hand portable radios. These range from Young Offender Institutions (YOI) to High Security prisons, located in buildings which range from Victorian to modern House Blocks. The safety and security of staff and prisoners is critical, and the management and maintenance of effective communications systems is key.

The scope of the service covers the TETRA networks, mobile TETRA network, AIRWAVE network access system and equipment, in existing and any future new sites. The scope of the service will also encompass all the equipment and activities necessary to maintain the networks in full working order. The prison TETRA network provides the following functions to sites and users

- Management of talk groups - Management of status information - Handling and transfer of data from radio to computer systems - Management of users on the radio system - Lone worker functions - Control of radio resources i.e. issue to users - Audio processing, storage, and playback

The Notice is to inform the market of the potential opportunity for the provision of a managed Prison Radio Communication Systems Service with options to refresh equipment during the term of the Contract.

The MoJ intends to run a procurement using the further competition process to procure services from Lot 5 of the Crown Commercial Services (CCS) Vertical Application Solutions (VAS) Framework (RM6259).

It is anticipated that the procurement will commence on 30th July 2025.

Interested Lot 5 framework suppliers must first be registered on the MoJ's esourcing system (https://ministryofjusticecommercial.bravosolution.co.uk/) and have signed a non-disclosure agreement to be given access to the procurement documents.

To enable a non-disclosure agreement to be sent for signature, Lot 5 framework suppliers should provide contact details of their authorised signatory to [email protected] - no later than 18th July 2025.

In advance of the ITT the MoJ will provide interested Lot 5 suppliers with:

- Prison Radio Communication Services briefing document

Additional information: Invitation to Tender (ITT) information for prospective suppliers on Lot 5 of the Vertical Application Solutions (VAS) Framework (RM6259) will be provided within the MoJ's eSourcing Portal, including all material relevant to the procurement.

This Notice is for information purposes only. This Notice does not signify the beginning of a procurement and does not constitute a commitment by the MoJ to undertake any procurement exercise.

When the MoJ decides to formally commence the procurement, the MoJ will issue a further competition in accordance with the Vertical Application Solutions (VAS) Framework (RM6259).