Source: https://tendernation.io/opportunities/01a13beb-3ade-73e2-863a-103d8d712838/independent-review-mechanism-irm-market-engagement-event

pending GB open procedure Suitable for SMEs

# Independent Review Mechanism (IRM)\_ Market Engagement Event

[Department for Education](https://tendernation.io/buyers/department-for-education)

Estimated value

£800,000

Published

25 Sept 2026

Deadline

Rolling deadline

## Who can bid

- Buyer says suitable for SMEs

    The buyer ticked “suitable for SMEs” on the notice. Anyone can still bid.
- Buyer says suitable for VCSEs

    The buyer ticked “suitable for voluntary, community and social enterprises” on the notice.
- Open procedure

    Anyone can submit a full tender; there is no shortlisting stage.

[More contracts for small businesses and VCSEs](https://tendernation.io/opportunities/for-small-businesses)

## About this tender

The Department for Education is exploring options for the future delivery of the Independent Review Mechanism (IRM), a statutory service that provides an independent review route for prospective and existing foster parents, adopters, and adult adoptees.

The IRM enables applicants to request an independent review of certain decisions made by fostering and adoption services, including decisions relating to approval status and access to records. Cases are considered by independent panels comprising experienced children's social care professionals, ensuring an impartial and objective review process.

The Department is seeking market feedback to inform the future service model, delivery approach, and commercial strategy. The service plays a key role in supporting transparency, fairness, and confidence in fostering and adoption decision-making processes across England.

Please note: This notice relates to pre-procurement market engagement only and does not constitute the commencement of a procurement process. Any future procurement opportunity will be advertised separately. The scope, requirements, and estimated contract value may be subject to change following market engagement.

## CPV classification

Health and social work services Social work and related services

Source

Find a Tender (UK) · Notice ocds-h6vhtk-077a23-2026-09-25T09:52:20+01:00

[View official notice](https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/ocds-h6vhtk-077a23-2026-09-25T09:52:20+01:00)

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