# Evaluation of a trial extension of SEND Tribunal powers

> Contract award record from UK public-sector procurement sources.

## Key facts

- Public buyer: [Department For Education](/buyers/department-for-education/contract-awards)
- Contract winner: [I\.F\.F RESEARCH LIMITED](/contract-winners/i-f-f-research/public-sector-contract-awards)
- Award value: £199,864
- Award date: 1 February 2018
- Published: 12 March 2021
- Contract start: 8 February 2018
- Contract end: 31 January 2021
- Stage: awarded
- Procurement category: goods
- Notice ID: 9ce9a8c1-cf76-4fe9-8f3b-395b66a8d73f-262735
- OCID: ocds-b5fd17-46e13fb5-6f07-4df1-bc9e-694b3e3734e2

## Description

Expressions of interest are sought for a multi-mode process and perception evaluation of a two year national trial, beginning early 2018, to extend the powers of the First-tier Tribunal Special Educational Needs and Disability \(SEND\) to make non-binding recommendations about health and social care aspects of Education, Health and Care \(EHC\) plans alongside educational aspects\. In order for the Department to make a decision on roll-out at the end of the trial, the evaluation will: • assess whether the extended powers were implemented as intended and whether they are deliverable and sustainable; • test processes/user-satisfaction and assess whether any changes to the process or policy need to be made; • provide indicative evidence on impact on children and young people with SEND and on commissioners and services; • assess any wider implications for the health and care sectors and the broader SEND system; and • review whether there are lessons for improving the SEND system to prevent and resolve disagreements\. We are proposing a process and perception evaluation that will gather evidence on the implementation and effectiveness of the trial\. The design and content of the evaluation will be co-produced with DfE policy experts and an external steering group\. Contractors are invited to propose the most suitable study design, however, it is suggested that this uses a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods and includes the following: • A survey of appellants passing through the trial • Multi-method, multi-agency case studies • Cost case studies • A national LA and CCG survey • Statistical analysis of management information \(MI\) data collected by the Tribunal • Measuring case flow in traditional health and social care redress routes • Analysis of a sample of response to recommendations letters • An analysis drawing on all data sources to support a decision on making the trial permanent We expect applicants who are invited to submit a full tender to include advice on the most appropriate and cost-effective methodologies\. Expressions of interest will be assessed against the following criteria: • Capacity to develop an appropriate methodology that offers value for money and to conduct the necessary fieldwork, analysis and reporting to the timelines indicated • Evidence of experience of the methodologies to be used for the process evaluation and a successful track record in project management skills and delivering to tight timescales • Evidence of experience in delivering a clear report with real practical applications • Understanding of SEND policy and practice, and the department's requirements Additional information: Estimated value is - 'Up to £200k' Word limit 1000 words

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## Source

[View the original notice on Contracts Finder](https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/Notice/9ce9a8c1-cf76-4fe9-8f3b-395b66a8d73f-262735)