How to Write Winning Tenders for Learning Disability Services

How to Write Winning Tenders for Learning Disability Services


Why Specialisation Matters

Writing tenders for learning disability services isn’t just about answering questions — it’s about demonstrating a deep understanding of the needs, expectations, and commissioning priorities in this sector. Generic answers won’t cut it. Commissioners expect tailored, insightful responses that reflect real expertise.


What Commissioners Want to See

Commissioners evaluating tenders for learning disability services are typically looking for evidence of:

  • Person-centred practice that promotes independence, choice, and control
  • Commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and meaningful community participation
  • Workforce competence in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), communication strategies, and risk management
  • Robust safeguarding and governance frameworks tailored to learning disability services
  • Proven outcomes and continuous improvement

Your answers must reflect these priorities clearly and consistently.


Top Tips to Strengthen Your Responses

  • Use Evidence — Back up your claims with real examples, outcomes data, testimonials, and commissioner feedback.
  • Be Specific — Tailor every answer to the contract’s specification, avoiding generic or vague statements.
  • Show Impact — Focus on how your service makes a tangible difference to people’s lives and how this aligns with local strategies.
  • Highlight Innovation — Where appropriate, demonstrate how your service embraces new approaches to enhance outcomes.
  • Address Risks — Show commissioners you understand sector challenges and have mitigations in place.

Resources to Strengthen Your Bids

Explore specialist resources designed to strengthen your learning disability bids:

➡️ Learning Disability Method Statements Collection
➡️ Strategy Collection (Including Learning Disability and Autism)
➡️ Bid Strategy & Training for Social Care Providers

Written by Mike Harrison, Founder of Impact Guru Ltd — specialists in bid writing and strategy for social care providers

Visit impact-guru.co.uk to browse downloadable strategies, method statements, or get in touch about tender support.

Written by Mike Harrison, Founder of Impact Guru Ltd — specialists in bid writing, strategy and developing specialist tools to support social care providers to prioritise workflow, win and retain more contracts.

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