DF Autism Support Services for People on Probation (South Central)

The Authority is seeking to procure Autism support services within the South Central region, for People on Probation, and is seeking to launch a competition in October 2021 using the Probation Services Dynamic Framework, with an indicative Contract Award Date of January 2022.

A recent MOJ call for evidence on Neuro-divergence estimates that approximately 15-20% of the adult population has some form of neuro-divergence (ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism etc.) with Autism affecting 1-2% of the population. However, the evidence submitted also suggests that individuals with neuro-divergence are significantly over-represented in the Criminal Justice System with 5–7% of those referred to liaison and diversion services, as living with an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). Within prisons the prevalence of autistic ‘traits’ or ‘indicators’ is estimated be around three times as high (16% - 19%).

There is a huge variation in the impact of Autistic Spectrum Condition on daily life from individual to individual. Whilst people living with Autistic Spectrum Condition can have increased memory ability and other specialist individual skills, they may experience difficulties with language and speech, motor skills, behaviour, memory, learning and other neurological functions.

This service shall provide specialist support and development to People on Probation with a diagnosis of, or strongly suspected of living with an Autistic Spectrum Condition.

This service shall address the individual needs of People on Probation with Autistic Spectrum Condition, helping them to develop strategies and coping mechanisms for everyday life and enabling them to better comply with Probation requirements and address offending behaviour, alongside providing the Probation Practitioner with insights on service adjustments and other approaches to best meet the needs of the individual with Autistic Spectrum Condition.

The Authority envisages that there will be 2 separate Lots, and subsequently 2 separate Contracts for this service for the following Police Crime Commissioner areas in South Central:

Lot 1: Hampshire

Lot 2: Thames Valley

The Authority are happy to be contacted by any providers that may be able to provide services to these regions. Please contacts us at ProbationDynamicFramework@justice.gov.uk

Please note, the procurement will be conducted through the Probation Services Dynamic Framework (PSDF).Only Providers who have submitted a PSDF SQ and qualified onto the PSDF under DF.07 Emotional Wellbeing will be invited to bid