Published date: 17 June 2024

Last edited date: 8 July 2024

Closed opportunity - This means that the contract is currently closed. The buying department may be considering suppliers that have already applied, or no suitable offers were made.


Closing: 11 July 2024, 12pm

Contract summary

Industry

  • Food parcels - 15897300

Location of contract

MK42 9AP

Value of contract

£0 to £50,000

Procurement reference

IT-380-3644-BBC PH 03644

Published date

17 June 2024

Closing date

11 July 2024

Closing time

12pm

Contract start date

30 July 2024

Contract end date

31 March 2025

Contract type

Service contract

Procedure type

Open procedure (above threshold)

Any interested supplier may submit a tender in response to an opportunity notice.

This procedure can be used for procurements above the relevant contract value threshold.

Contract is suitable for SMEs?

Yes

Contract is suitable for VCSEs?

No

Description

Communities in Bedford Borough, and across the UK, are feeling the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis. Rising prices, stagnant earnings and limited financial aid, are making it tough for individuals and families to afford everyday essentials, including food. Evidence from the Institute of Health Equity, Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Resolution Foundation highlight the alarming impact of this crisis on both short- and long-term health. The number of people living in absolute poverty is projected to rise, affecting an estimated 30% of children by 2023/24.

In Bedford (2020/21), it was reported that nearly a third of children are living in poverty after housing costs, with ethnically diverse communities disproportionately affected, widening health inequalities. Access to affordable nutritious food is becoming increasingly challenging, leading to reliance on cheap, unhealthy options and for some there is a risk of going hungry. Many experience other barriers to healthy food, in terms of the means to store, prepare and cook.

Everyone, especially children should be guaranteed a nutritious meal and not be at risk of going hungry. It is vital that we provide support to those who need it, without stigma. Moreover, it's crucial to create a healthier and more sustainable food environment for the long term.

This is Round 2 of the Grant Funding. Organisations that were successful in Round 1 of the funding can not apply for Round 2.

More information

Links

Additional text

Is a Recurrent Procurement Type? : No

About the buyer

Contact name

Simon Smart

Address

Cauldwell Street
Bedford
United Kingdom
MK42 9AP
United Kingdom

Telephone

01234276985

Email

Simon.Smart@bedford.gov.uk