Barnardo’s Set To Secure £1.64 Million Isle Of Wight Family Support Contract

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Barnardo’s is set to continue providing family support services on the Isle of Wight under a new contract worth £1.64 million a year.

The Isle of Wight Council says the charity submitted the ‘most advantageous tender’ during a competitive procurement process for its Early Intervention and Prevention Service.

The council now intends to formally award the contract to Barnardo’s, which is the Island’s existing provider.

However, the decision is subject to a mandatory standstill period, meaning unsuccessful bidders have until next Friday (28 August) to raise any legal challenge.

The current contract with Barnardo’s is due to end in March 2027, with the new agreement scheduled to begin on 1 April.

The Early Intervention and Prevention Service forms part of the Island’s Family Hub programme, supporting expectant parents, children, young people and families through a network of Family Hubs and Family Centres.

It provides universal, targeted and intensive support, with the aim of making sure families can access help at the right time.

The council says the procurement process was ‘robust and competitive’, with the recommendation to award the contract also approved by the Children’s Services, Education and Skills Committee.

Committee chair, Reform UK councillor Ros Freeman, said members had discussed the recommendation privately before agreeing it, with the proviso that an annual report is produced in consultation with the chair.

The council says the new contract will allow Early Intervention and Prevention Services and the Family Hub programme to continue across the Island, providing early help and support to children, young people and families.