The Provision of Drug & Alcohol Prescribing - Criminal Justice Services
Description: The Health Board is commissioning an interim clinical drug and alcohol treatment service to support adults in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot who require prescribing interventions, including those within the criminal justice system. The service will deliver safe, evidence-based opioid substitution therapy and alcohol treatment, with rapid clinical assessment and a strong emphasis on same-day or timely prescribing to minimise risk and improve engagement. It will work as part of the wider Alliance model, integrating seamlessly with psychosocial services and supporting continuity of care from custody, court and prison into the community. The provider will be responsible for maintaining robust clinical governance, ensuring compliance with national guidelines, and collaborating closely with criminal justice partners to facilitate effective pathways, reduce harm, and support individuals' recovery goals.
Summary: The NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership, hosted by Velindre University NHS Trust, is overseeing a procurement process for the provision of drug and alcohol prescribing services within the Swansea Bay area, particularly focusing on the criminal justice system. This initiative falls under the Provider Selection Regime Wales, guided by the Most Suitable Provider Process, and does not adhere to the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. The planned service will commence on 1st April 2026 and run until 31st March 2027. It aims to deliver rehabilitation services with a contract value of £750,000, providing rapid access to opioid substitution therapy and alcohol treatments under the strict governance of Health Board standards. The Assistant Director of Planning & Partnerships, Mrs Hannah Roan, is responsible for the decision-making process, and communication about future notices is anticipated on 1st April 2026.