PSR Allen Carr EasyWay

*This notice serves as an Intention to Award under the Provider Selection Regime (PSR). Publication of this notice marks the start of the standstill period* Central Bedfordshire Council intends to award a contract for the provision of stop smoking services to Allen Carr's Easyway under Provider Selection Regime Direct Award Process C. The proposed contract value is £127,000 and the contract will run from 1 September 2026 to 31 August 2028. The Council has assessed the existing provider against all five PSR key criteria: quality and innovation; value; integration, collaboration and service sustainability; improving access, reducing health inequalities and facilitating choice; and social value. Allen Carr's Easyway has demonstrated strong quit rates and service-user engagement under the existing arrangements. The provider continues to meet the Council's requirements and the proposed arrangements build on established service delivery and proven outcomes. Continuation with the existing provider supports service sustainability and alignment with the Council's public health priorities, while minimising implementation and transition risks. Having considered the five key criteria and the provider's performance under the existing arrangements, the Council is satisfied that the existing provider is performing to a sufficient standard and is likely to continue to do so under the proposed contract. The Council has therefore determined that Direct Award Process C is appropriate. Decision makers: Deputy Director of Public Health and Head of Procurement. Conflicts of interest: No conflicts of interest or potential conflicts of interest were declared by the individuals involved in the decision-making process.