Home to School Mainstream, Special Educational Needs & Disabilities, Pupil Referral Units, Post 16 College, Short Term Care and Adult & Child Social Care Transport DPS
Introduction
The Home to School Mainstream, Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND), Pupil Referral Units, Post 16 College, Short Term Care, and Adult & Child Social Care Transport Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is a procurement initiative launched by Buckinghamshire Council. This DPS is designed to organise and manage transport services for children and vulnerable adults across a variety of contexts. It will be operational until 27 October 2028, offering a flexible procurement route that allows suppliers to join at any time during its duration. The system aims to support the seamless transportation of individuals to and from educational institutions and social care settings, thereby ensuring their safety and satisfaction.
Context & Use Case
This DPS is specifically tailored to meet the transportation needs of various groups within Buckinghamshire. It targets individuals attending mainstream schools, SEND schools, pupil referral units, post-16 education facilities, and those requiring social care services. By establishing this DPS, Buckinghamshire Council seeks to streamline the procurement of transport services, ensuring that all necessary logistics are managed efficiently and effectively. Contracting authorities utilise this framework to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while providing a quick and competitive route to market for transport services.
Scope of Services
The DPS is divided into several categories, or "Lots," based on vehicle types and services required. These include: 1. Vehicles with 4 to 8 seats for smaller group transport needs. 2. Vehicles with 9 to 16 seats suitable for larger groups. 3. Wheelchair accessible vehicles to accommodate individuals with mobility needs. 4. Specialist transport services, including ambulances or secure transport options for specific circumstances. 5. Emergency transport services, which provide rapid response within one hour and are available for up to 24 hours. 6. Public Service Vehicle (PSV) passenger transport services, such as home-to-school transport.
Who Can Apply
The flexibility of a DPS allows for a wide range of suppliers to apply. Transport service providers with capabilities in any of the specified categories are encouraged to participate. This includes both established companies and new market entrants who can demonstrate their suitability through a Selection Questionnaire. The dynamic nature of the DPS means that suppliers can apply at any point during its lifetime, providing an ongoing opportunity for new participants.
Buyer Benefits
For public sector buyers, this DPS offers a structured yet flexible procurement option. It ensures compliance with procurement regulations while facilitating a swift and competitive process to engage transport services. The categorisation by vehicle type and service requirement allows for precise matching of services to the needs of the contracting authority, thus enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, the ability to invite suppliers to join the DPS throughout its duration ensures a continually refreshed pool of potential service providers, fostering healthy competition and potentially driving down costs.
Lots
Not applicable
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in this DPS should thoroughly review the specific requirements and operational details provided by Buckinghamshire Council. It is advisable to contact the contracting authority directly to express interest and to obtain guidance on completing the Selection Questionnaire. By engaging directly with the Council, suppliers can ensure they are fully informed of the criteria and expectations involved.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable supports suppliers by offering resources and guidance to navigate public sector procurement frameworks like this DPS. We assist in the discovery of suitable opportunities, help with preparation to meet participation criteria, and provide visibility into upcoming procurement pipelines. Our focus is on equipping suppliers with the information and tools they need to successfully engage with frameworks and DPSs, without any promotional pressure.