'Function Forward' Mental Health Programme

The aim of Function Forward is to provide coordinated, multidisciplinary and biopsychosocial support for children and young people aged 12–18 with functional or complex presentations that significantly affect their daily functioning. The service will bring together paediatric, psychological and youth work expertise to develop a shared understanding of the young person’s symptoms, reduce uncertainty and agree a personalised care plan with the young person and their family. Additional information: 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 do not apply to this award. The standstill period begins on the day after the publication of this notice. Representations by providers must be made by 27 October 2026 via email to [email protected]. This contract has not yet formally been awarded; this notice serves as an intention to award under the PSR.<br/><br/>Quality and Innovation (30%) – Weighted highest to ensure the service continues to deliver safe, evidence-informed and person-centred care for children and young people with complex needs while supporting ongoing service development and improvement.<br/><br/>Value (20%) – Weighted to reflect the need for efficient use of resources, reduction of duplication and demonstration of sustainable benefits as the service expands across Somerset.<br/><br/>Integration, Collaboration and Service Sustainability (20%) – Weighted to emphasise the importance of effective multi-agency working and the development of a sustainable workforce and consistent county-wide pathways.<br/><br/>Improving Access, Reducing Health Inequalities and Facilitating Choice (20%) – Weighted to support the expansion of services across Somerset, improving access for underserved communities and increasing choice for children, young people and their families.<br/><br/>Social Value (10%) – Weighted to recognise the additional community, workforce and wellbeing benefits delivered through local partnerships, whilst remaining secondary to the core service objectives.<br/><br/>Overall Justification – The weighting structure prioritises high-quality, safe and effective service delivery while maintaining a balanced focus on value, collaboration, sustainability and equitable access across Somerset.<br/><br/>Decision maker: Deputy Head of CAMHS and Paediatrics<br/>No conflicts of interest were identified.