Improving access to mental health crisis services across Greater Manchester

Over 20% of 8-16 year olds experienced mental health disorders in 2023*. While investment in mental health has increased over the years, some services are still stretched, and further investment is needed to provide the best level of care to those in need.

This is something that Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board (GM ICB) recognised, and as the ICB’s strategic procurement partner, we worked with their teams to procure and contract a brand new mental health crisis service for 0-17 year olds across the region.

Our team worked with GM ICB to map out exactly what services were needed and where. Acting on their behalf, we designed and led the whole process, navigating new legislation at the same time, including:

• Ensuring the procurement was compliant with the new Provider Selection Regime (PSR) regulations
• Researching the unique needs of GM ICB to ensure the lots met both the geographical and local population needs across the locality
• Running the procurement, ensuring that the tender packs, evaluation process and moderation to appoint suppliers was compliant

The result?

GM ICB now has a robust procurement in place to enable increased access to mental health crisis services. This means that at arguably, a 0-17 year olds biggest time of need, they can get the care they need, close to home, as quickly as possible.

As a strategic procurement partner, we provide tailored, flexible procurement support that meets our customers specific requirements. Find out more about our Commercial Delivery Partner Services here.

* Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2023 – wave 4 follow up to the 2017 survey – NHS England Digital