Expression of Interest Now Open: Community-Led Prevention Service

The HEY Smile Foundation, in partnership with East Riding of Yorkshire Council, is inviting organisations from the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for an exciting new commission: The Community-Led Prevention Service.

This opportunity places the VCSE sector at the heart of a new approach to early support—helping people stay well, independent, and connected to their communities.

You can find the Service Specification and the presentation from the engagement event at the bottom of this page for reference.

A New Approach to Early Support

This emerging service is designed to support adults who are:

• Seeking support
• Waiting for Adult Social Care
• At risk of needing more intensive intervention

The aim is simple but powerful: provide early, community-based support that prevents needs from escalating.

Recognising the deep knowledge, trust, and reach of local organisations, this model puts VCSE groups at the centre of delivery—working alongside statutory services to create more responsive, person-centred support.

The Role of HEY Smile Foundation

As the lead infrastructure organisation, the HEY Smile Foundation will coordinate and support delivery across the region. This includes:

• Commissioning and managing delivery partners
• Providing safeguarding frameworks and quality assurance
• Coordinating with Adult Social Care and system partners
• Collecting data and reporting on impact
• Supporting collaboration across multiple localities

This structure ensures that community organisations can focus on what they do best—supporting people—while being backed by strong systems and support.

The Role of Community Organisations

Local VCSE organisations will deliver strengths-based, non-statutory support, helping individuals to:

• Navigate community resources
• Build confidence and resilience
• Stay connected and independent
• Access the right support at the right time

This is about working with people, not doing to them—building on strengths and community assets.

Who Should Apply?

We are keen to hear from organisations that are:

• Based in and delivering services within the East Riding area
• Interested in becoming a local delivery partner
• Experienced in supporting individuals and connecting them to community resources

Whether you’re a small grassroots group or a more established organisation, your insight and experience are valued.

How to Apply

• Expressions of Interest are now open.
• Deadline: 12 noon, 11 May 2026

Apply by clicking here

Please note:

• This is not a formal tender process, but an initial Expression of Interest
• Submissions must be completed via the online link and meet word limits
• Applications will be assessed by a panel including stakeholders and people with lived experience
• Enquiries: hello@heysmilefoundation.org

Key Dates

• Engagement Event: 21 April 2026
• EOI Opens: 27 April 2026
• EOI Closes: 11 May 2026 (12 noon)
• Assessment Complete: 15 May 2026
• Notifications: Week commencing 25 May 2026
• Contracts Issued: Week commencing 25 May 2026
• Service Launch: 1 June 2026

Why This Matters

This is more than a commission—it’s an opportunity to shape how early support is delivered across our communities. By working together, we can reduce pressure on statutory services while improving outcomes for local people.

The VCSE sector has always played a vital role in prevention. This initiative recognises that value and offers a real chance to embed it within the wider system.

If your organisation is passionate about supporting people early, building stronger communities, and being part of a collaborative, place-based approach—we encourage you to get involved.