Assistive Technologies (Warden Call and Other Solutions)- Market Engagement

** Please register on ProContract for full details of the project.**

Orbit is undertaking a strategic review of its Warden Call program and operating model to identify opportunities for long-term partnerships that deliver enhanced value, innovation, efficiency, and customer outcomes.

Orbit have a total of 69 schemes currently using a variety of warden call systems across the Midlands and South and East. regions. Out of the 69, 45 systems are grouped analogue systems which will require upgrading. The remaining 24 schemes have within the last 5 years been upgraded to a digital system and although they will not require any immediate upgrade work.

The scope of the programme is to be confirmed through market engagement but may include the following:

• 24/7 Emergency Alarm Service for customers within their homes

• 24/7 - Fire Alarm monitoring including customer properties and communal fire system

• 24/7 - Door Entry System

Orbit plans to run a procurement exercise in 2026/27 in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023. This will lead to the appointment of partners to deliver assistive technologies to Orbit's homes in the Midlands, South and East of England.

The planned start date for the new contracts is 1st April 2027. Orbit will conduct a Competitive Flexible Procurement in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 to appoint contractors, and this is currently programmed to commence in Q3 2026, with the contracts being awarded by December 2026.

All notices will be published via the UK Government's Find a Tender Service in accordance with public procurement procedures.

Orbit offer thanks to interested parties who are able to commit the time and resource to this engagement.

Objectives

In preparation of the procurement Orbit is carrying out this engagement with the aim of holding discussions with providers to support the development of their future strategy with regard to Assistive Technologies (Warden Call and Other Solutions).

Orbit's objectives with regard to Assistive Technologies (Warden Call and Other Solutions) are, provisionally, to:

• Customer at the Heart - Customers influencing the design of services, tender evaluation, and contract performance oversight.

• Lasting Legacy - Social value embedded as a core component of the model, ensuring long-term benefits for our Customers and Neighbourhoods.

• Specification Improvements - Ensure the contracts support standardising specifications in line with the Development directorate to ensure improved value for money, and consistency in repairs and maintenance in the future.

Format & Timing of the Engagement

Orbit have considered the market's resources, the time and cost of engagement and the prevention of barriers to participation. Orbit have decided that the format of the engagement will be:

1. An expression of interest and provision of information by contractors who wish to participate via the portal- please ensure you complete the questionnaire and via the messaging function upload your response.

2. Individual one to one meetings with participants, held over MS Teams calls, the agenda of which will be the points shown below 'Section 2: Subject Matter'.

Orbit will allow sufficient time for participants to prepare for and participate in the engagement. An outline timeline for this Market Engagement process is detailed below:

Deadline for Submissions of Interest On or before 25th June 2026 12.00 via the portal

Discussion Session Dates from: W/C 29th June to W/C 6th July 2026

Please register on ProContract for further details of the project