East Tenders wins first major contract in partnership with local authority

East Tenders’ members are competing for and winning large public service contracts which were previously beyond their reach.

Improving service provision 

With Capacitybuilders’ funding this partnership of small, third sector training providers has strengthened and improved the quality and range of its services by working together and can now compete successfully against private sector providers.

Working with disadvantaged communities 

East Tenders’ members operate in Tower Hamlets, one of London’s most disadvantaged communities with high levels of worklessness and child poverty.

Securing valuable contract

In partnership with the London Borough of Redbridge, East Tenders has been awarded a Future Jobs Fund contract from the Department of Work and Pensions – delivery will involve 15 members.

Modernising support 

Capacitybuilders’ support for the project, which expects to become financially self-sustaining, amounts to £355,760 Modernising Support Services funding over three years. East Tenders also attracted direct funding from the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) to “accelerate development” and achieved LSC approved training provider status.

Strength in numbers 

Julie Khan, Employment and Skills Manager at the London Borough of Redbridge says:

“The borough worked closely with East Tenders on the submission of a bid to the Future Jobs Fund. It meant working to a very tight deadline and East Tenders was able to respond quickly. Through their membership we were able to include a wide range of voluntary and community sector partners offering 115 jobs in a range of work areas.”