“"This framework has been shaped by the people who know these services best: the people who use them, their families, carers and providers. We heard clearly that people want opportunities to develop skills, build relationships, pursue interests and play an active role in their communities. They want support that is flexible, personalised and focused on what matters most to them. The new framework responds directly to that feedback and will help create more choice and opportunities for residents across the county. This supports our vision for a healthy, fair and sustainable Cambridgeshire and our ambition to enable full and healthy lives for all, while supporting people to live independently. I would like to thank everyone who contributed their time, experience and insight to helping shape this important work."
Cambridgeshire Council Approves New £64m Framework for Adult Day Opportunities
New contract aims for more flexible, personalised support for adults with learning disabilities and autism, shaped by user feedback.
By Rebecca Flint
••2 min read
AI
Generic image of a diverse group of adults participating in community activities in a bright, modern setting.
Cambridgeshire County Council's Adults and Health Committee has approved a new £64m contractual framework for day opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and autism, following extensive co-production.
The new framework, valued at up to £64m over an eight-year term, will replace the current arrangement and introduce a more flexible, outcomes-focused approach. It aims to ensure day opportunities continue to meet the needs and aspirations of residents, supporting them to live healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives.
Rather than primarily purchasing individual places within services, the framework will emphasise helping individuals achieve their personal goals. It will also encourage providers to develop innovative and personalised opportunities, with plans to re-open the framework annually to increase choice and allow new providers to join.
The approach was shaped through a significant co-production programme involving over 500 people, including those with lived experience, family members, carers, providers, and professionals. Feedback highlighted a desire for support to live meaningful lives, make choices, build relationships, pursue interests, and be part of their communities.
Six key priorities emerged from the feedback: learning and development, work and purpose, hobbies and interests, community participation, relationships and social connections, and greater choice and flexibility. These have been embedded into the new framework's design.
Around 826 people currently access day opportunities in Cambridgeshire. The framework will support adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults, and may also be used for some people with acquired brain injuries. The council will now proceed with market engagement and procurement, aiming to introduce the new framework in 2027, continuing close collaboration with stakeholders.
Based on information from the official source: Cambridgeshire County Council (15/10/2026)
