Why the PIR is Critical for Social Care Providers
Insequa works with social care providers across the UK every day, helping providers win valuable Local Authority contracts and framework positions, and supporting their regulatory compliance and quality improvement. This means we’re ideally placed to spot trends and developments in the sector quickly.
One such development is the use of the Provider Information Return (PIR) within procurement processes. Social care providers could be excused for feeling like the PIR is an inconsequential regulatory inconvenience that falls into a black hole once submitted. Well, this may have been true previously, but it looks like things are changing.
Beyond Compliance: The PIR in Tender Evaluations
We’re starting to see local authorities embedding PIR ratings into their award criteria for call off contracts within framework agreements. In the example below, providers who do not submit a PIR or where there are areas of concern with their submitted PIR, may not be eligible to be allocated business or bidding for call-off contracts, despite having a place on the Framework and having a Good CQC rating.
For example, providers are assessed against categories such as:
- Completion Rates: Failing to complete all required provider returns can result in an immediate mark-down.
- Quality Concerns: Low to severe areas of concern, whether resolved or ongoing, can also negatively impact ratings.
Importantly, providers who do not have an overall green grading within this system will not be eligible for any work within the Framework.
This focus on PIR submissions demonstrates their importance not only for regulatory purposes but also as a competitive differentiator when competing for contracts.
Stay Ahead: Be on the Pulse
It’s vital to stay on top of these developments. The PIR is just one piece of the puzzle in tendering success. Local authorities are increasingly looking for providers who can demonstrate excellence across the board, including:
- Social Value Contributions: How does your agency add value to the community?
- Tender Writing Expertise: Can you effectively articulate your agency’s capabilities?
- Evidence of Compliance: Are your processes robust and well-documented?
The reality is that a weak PIR submission could hinder your ability to win tenders. But with a strategic approach, you can transform it into a strength that sets your agency apart.
Why Partner with Insequa?
At Insequa, we don’t just help you tick boxes—we help you tell your story. Together, we can craft a winning submission that showcases your strengths and positions you ahead of the competition.
- PIR Excellence: We ensure your submission is comprehensive, accurate, and aligned with award criteria.
- Tender-Winning Support: From social value narratives to evidencing compliance and drafting tender responses, we cover the entire process.
- Strategic Insights: Our expert team identifies gaps and opportunities, ensuring your agency stands out.
Partnering with us means more than just completing the PIR. It’s about reviewing the whole picture and presenting a compelling case for why your agency is the best choice. Speak to our social care experts, today.
The future of social care is competitive. Be on the pulse—partner with Insequa to not only meet expectations but exceed them.
