Somerset Integrated Care Board are intending to award a contract to the existing provider following a Provider Selection Regime Direct Award Process C. The existing provider is satisfying the original contract and will likely satisfy the proposed new contract. The services provided are the service specification are not changing considerably. The contract will commence 1st July 2026 for 12 months with the option to extend for a further 12 months which would take the expiry to 30th June 2028 if the option to extend for a further year is enacted. This Notice has been published by NHS South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit (SCW) on behalf of the Commissioners.

The Service provides high-quality low vision assessments, clinical support and access to low vision aids. The service supports people with sight loss, particularly new diagnosed to make maximum use of their remaining vision, improve patient experience and strengthen outcome measures. The authority is assured that the current provider is delivering this service and outcomes to a satisfactory level and meeting the needs of the Somerset Population ensuring people can access assessments and aids closer to home, improving choice and convenience. PSR Direct Award Process C has been used for the award of this contract. The existing provider is satisfying the original contract and will likely satisfy the proposed new contract. The services provided are the service specification are not changing considerably. The Commissioner made the decision of directly awarding the incumbent Provider in accordance with the following five criteria outlined in Regulation (9) of the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023: • Quality and innovation • Value • Integration, collaboration, and service sustainability • Improving access, reducing health inequalities and facilitating choice • Social value The contract value is £69000.00 The contract will commence 1st July 2026 for 12 months with the option to extend for a further 12 months which would take the expiry to 30th June 2028 if the option to extend for a further year is enacted. This is a Provider Selection Regime (PSR) intention to award notice. The awarding of this contract is subject to the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023. For the avoidance of doubt, the provisions of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and The Procurement Act 2023 do not apply to this award. The publication of this notice marks the start of the standstill period. Representations by providers must be made to decision makers by 17th June 2026 (8 working days following publication of intention to award notice). This contract has not yet formally been awarded; this notice serves as This Notice has been published by NHS South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit (SCW) on behalf of the Commissioners.