The Procurement Act 2023 for care providers
The Procurement Act 2023 came into force on 24 February 2025 and replaced the old Public Contracts Regulations 2015 for most new public procurements in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For care providers it brings more transparency, new notice types, and a single national platform for finding opportunities. The core skills of bidding stay the same: meet the criteria, answer the questions, and evidence your care quality.
What actually changed
The Act introduces new procedures such as the flexible competitive procedure, more published notices across the contract life, and a central digital platform that suppliers register on once. There is a stronger focus on transparency and on excluding poor performers. Contracts that started under the old rules continue under those rules, so you will see both regimes for a while.
What it means for your bids
You still need a current CQC or Ofsted registration, the right insurances, accounts that pass a financial check, and clear method statements. The biggest practical change is more visible information about contracts and performance. Read each tender on its own terms, because buyers are still settling into the new notice formats.
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
When did the Procurement Act 2023 come into force?
It went live on 24 February 2025. The previous go-live date was delayed from October 2024 to allow more time for the new national procurement policy statement and guidance.
Does the Procurement Act 2023 apply to Scotland?
No. Scotland has its own procurement rules and portals, such as Public Contracts Scotland. The Act covers England, and reserved procurement in Wales and Northern Ireland.
Do I need to do anything differently to bid now?
Register on the central digital platform when prompted, keep your supplier information current, and read each tender carefully. The fundamentals of writing a strong, evidenced bid have not changed.
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.