The service is designed to enable the ´cared for individual´ to remain in a safe, stimulating and caring environment for periods of respite care. The service will also provide peace of mind for Carers that their loved ones take their respite in a secure environment in which they are comfortable, happy and well cared for. The successful provider will be expected to provide minimum dedicated care hours each week regardless of bed occupancy. The service will provide 6 respite beds that will be commissioned on a block purchase basis, allowing for scheduled respite. In addition to the 6 block purchased beds there will be 1 additional emergency bed for emergency provision. This additional bed can only be accessed by means of a Social Worker/Care Manager or by the Emergency Duty Team (Out of Hours.) It is a requirement that the 7 beds must be in a care home within the Borough of Hartlepool, registered with the Care Quality Commission for the provision of respite support to people with learning disabilities and rated "Good" or "Outstanding". All seven (7) beds must be available for occupation on 1st April 2027 on commencement of the contract.