Contract examples and past performance in care bids
Buyers ask for contract examples to check you have delivered similar care before and can be trusted with theirs. A strong example is recent, similar in service type and size, and shows real outcomes with numbers. If you are new, you can often use relevant private or self funded work, the experience of your registered manager, or smaller contracts, as long as you are honest about scale.
What buyers are checking
Contract examples, sometimes called past performance or relevant experience, show that you have done comparable work safely. Buyers look for similar service type, a comparable number of hours or beds, and a recent timeframe, often within the last three to five years. They may contact the named client as a reference, so choose examples that will speak well of you.
What to do if you are new
Newer providers can use the most relevant work they have, including private or spot purchase packages, and the documented experience of their registered manager and senior staff. Be clear about the real size of the work rather than inflating it. Many frameworks and dynamic purchasing systems are deliberately open to newer providers, so check the criteria before assuming you cannot bid.
Not sure if you qualify for a tender? We check it for free, before you pay anything, and we only take bids we believe you can win. Text TENDER to get started.
Common questions
How many contract examples do care tenders ask for?
Commonly two or three. The tender documents will state the number, the timeframe, and the type of work the examples should cover.
Can I use private or self funded work as an example?
Often yes, if it is relevant and the buyer's instructions allow it. Read the requirement carefully, as some tenders ask specifically for public sector contracts.
What if I have no directly similar contracts?
Use your closest relevant experience and the track record of your registered manager and team. Many dynamic purchasing systems and frameworks are open to newer providers with limited contract history.
Keep reading
Browse all care tender guides, or see care tender writing by service.
Got a tender to check?
Text TENDER to +44 7822 001898and we'll tell you free whether you'd qualify, before you spend a penny.