Council Moving & Handling Contracts Explained: A Commissioner’s Guide

Why Councils Outsource Moving & Handling

Over 17 UK local authorities currently lack in-house Moving and Handling (M&H) capability. When an authority does not employ a specialist practitioner, statutory duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR) still apply. Outsourcing to an independent, physiotherapy-led provider closes that gap without the cost of a permanent post.

Councils typically commission M&H in three ways: spot purchase for individual cases, block booking for teams, and retained contracts for ongoing coverage. Each suits a different volume profile and budget cycle.

The Three Contract Models

1. Spot Purchase

Best for low volume. You refer one service user or one care home at a time. Turnaround is usually 5-10 working days for an assessment report. No commitment, pay per case.

2. Block Booking

Best for predictable volume. You purchase a set number of assessments or training days per quarter, often at a reduced rate. Ideal for authorities with recurring care-home audit cycles.

3. Retained Contract

Best for full coverage. A monthly fee secures priority response, on-call advice, quarterly audits, and unlimited basic consultations. Large authorities and care groups use this model.

What to Look for in a Provider

• HCPC registration – the practitioner should be a registered physiotherapist or occupational therapist
• Council experience – evidence of work with adult social services, not just private clients
• Report quality – ask for a redacted sample; reports must be legally defensible and person-centred
• Insurance – professional indemnity and public liability certificates
• DBS clearance – enhanced, current

Tender-Readiness Checklist

If you are drafting a tender, include: referral pathway, response SLA, report format, escalation process for high-risk cases, equipment provision policy, and reporting on outcomes (not just activity). Providers who answer these clearly save you months in procurement.

How Thrive Better Living Works with Councils

Thrive Better Living is an independent, physiotherapy-led M&H service with 9+ years of clinical experience. We deliver person-centred risk assessments, staff training, and contract provision, under the philosophy of Moving & Handling with Dignity. To discuss a contract arrangement, use the contact page.

FAQs

Do councils have a statutory duty for moving and handling?

Yes. As employers, councils must comply with MHOR 1992 and HSWA 1974 for their own staff, and the Care Act 2014 shapes duties around service user risk and dignity.

Can a physiotherapist provide moving and handling training?

Yes. Physiotherapists with M&H instructor training are among the most qualified providers, because clinical assessment of the person informs safer handling plans.

What is the difference between a risk assessment and training?

A risk assessment evaluates a specific service user and environment and produces a handling plan. Training builds staff competence in techniques and equipment. Commissioners usually need both.

How quickly can a contract start?

Spot purchases can start within days. Retained contracts typically follow a light-touch procurement: scope, sample report, agreement, kickoff within 2-4 weeks.