Open Light Touch Framework for Independent and Alternative Education Support for Children and Young People in Devon

An 'open framework' is a scheme of successive frameworks awarded on substantially the same terms. New providers can Bid and be added each time the framework is reopened. The existing framework ends and a new framework begins after each reopening process. In compliance with Section 49 of the Act an Open Framework must re-open at least once during the first three (3) years and then at least once during the following five (5) year period.

Each time a Framework is reopened for Bids, this will be known as an Entry Point. The Framework Agreements entered into after each Entry Point will be known by the successive Framework number. e.g. the initial Framework linked to Entry Point 1 will be known as Framework One, the subsequent Framework linked to Entry Point 2 will be known as Framework Two and so on.

After this Entry Point it is anticipated that there will be one (1) Entry Point in each of the following years as from 2025 for the duration of the Open Framework. However, the Authority reserves the right to have more Entry Points at its discretion. A Tender Notice will be published on the Platform each time the Framework is re-opened.

Existing Providers who were previously appointed onto one or more Lot(s) of the Open Framework will automatically be appointed onto the subsequent Framework(s) and will not need to take any action in response to the re-opening of the Framework unless:

• they choose to submit a new Bid in response to an Entry Point, or
• they request in writing that the Authority does not appoint them onto one or more Lot(s) of the new Framework following the re-opening of an Entry Point

Bidders who are successful in a bid will be appointed onto the open framework by entering into a Framework Agreement, with Devon County Council (DCC)

Placements and packages of work under any of the Lots will then be awarded via a mini competition process or a direct award. A full explanation of the processes can be found within the Framework Agreement, Note that DCC cannot give any guarantee of business or of the actual value of any Contracts awarded under the Framework. Usage and values of Contracts may be affected by the implementation of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Further information on LGR can be found in the ITT document.

Bidders are required to complete a pricing schedule for the Lot(s) they are bidding for, The prices submitted will not be evaluated, however they will be used at call-off Contract stage where costs submitted cannot exceed those stated in the relevant Lot Pricing Schedule (taking into account any agreed fee increase as per the Fee and Inflationary Uplift Protocol). This Protocol can be viewed in Appendix 9 of the Invitation to Tender (ITT) document.