Gateshead Council has opened a light touch framework for the provision of residential and nursing care homes across the borough, seeking qualified operators across six distinct service lots.

The framework covers general and specialist residential and nursing care, including provision for people with learning and physical disabilities, mental health conditions, autism, neurological needs, palliative care and end of life support. All homes must be situated in Gateshead, fully operational and CQC registered at bid submission.

A light touch framework allows the council to appoint multiple providers without a formal competitive process at the call-off stage, streamlining procurement once providers are on the panel. The framework will close to new applications once the initial procurement concludes, but the council intends to reopen it annually on the contract anniversary to permit previously unsuccessful homes and new entrants to bid. Providers selected during the initial round will not need to reapply. The council reserves the right to reopen the framework at other intervals and to add additional lots during the contract period.

Bids must arrive by 27 July 2026. Full procurement documents are available on Find a Tender.