How to Show Added Value in Domiciliary Care Tenders

August 4, 2025

💡 Blog 6 of 7 in our Domiciliary Care Bid Writing Series

“Added value” is a favourite phrase of commissioners — but what does it mean in practice? In our work as a domiciliary care bid writer, we see providers either underplay or misunderstand this crucial area. This blog breaks down what counts as added value in domiciliary care tenders and how to write about it effectively.

💰 Added Value Isn’t Just About Freebies

Many providers think added value means offering extra services at no cost. While that can help, it’s not the only route. Added value can include anything that increases impact, quality, or efficiency without increasing cost to the commissioner.

🌟 Common Examples of Added Value

Enhanced staff training beyond minimum requirements (e.g. dementia champions, PBS)
Digital care systems that improve record-keeping, auditing, or family access
Use of assistive technology to support independence and reduce risk
Social value contributions like local employment, volunteering, or carbon reduction
Responsive management — e.g. proactive review cycles, client satisfaction surveys

As a domiciliary care bid writer, I always advise threading these strengths throughout the bid — not just saving them for one section.

📊 Proving Your Added Value

Commissioners won’t take claims at face value. You need to evidence impact:

“Our annual review cycle led to 84% of support plans being updated within 5 days of a change in need.”
“Staff trained in oral health monitoring identified issues early in 7 cases last quarter.”

Back up your added value with data, feedback, and results.

🧠 Framing Matters

Don't just describe your extras — link them directly to what the commissioner cares about. For example:

“To support the commissioner’s focus on reablement, our service includes goal tracking for each person and weekly progress reviews.”
“In line with the specification’s focus on digital care planning, we offer family portal access with consent.”

📌 A Final Tip

Don’t rely on a single “Added Value” section. Thread your strengths throughout the tender, using them to strengthen responses on staffing, outcomes, monitoring, and more. Before submission, consider using a specialist proofreading service to ensure your added value is expressed clearly, persuasively, and consistently across your tender.

Read the full 7-part series here: