Department of Health - Developing a Preventative Adult Social Care and Support Framework in Northern Ireland

The Department of Health (DoH) published Reforming Adult Social Care and Support (2026-2036), setting out a vision for a person-centred, rights-based adult social care system, co-produced with people who draw on care and support services and unpaid carers. The accompanying Delivery Plan (2026-2029) identifies six strategic priorities, including Priority 3: Prevention and Early Intervention. The Department sought to establish a robust evidence base and implementation framework to support the delivery of this priority and accelerate the shift towards preventative and strengths-based approaches within Adult Social Care. The Department has awarded a contract to Impower Consulting Limited for specialist support to develop a preventative framework, quantify opportunities for improvement, establish mechanisms for collaborative system learning, and develop actionable proposals capable of delivering measurable improvements in outcomes, service capacity and value for money. The mandatory standstill period ended on 23rd July 2026, with the Award letter issued 24th July 2026.