dorset council is seeking tenders from capable service providers for laboratory testing services. traditionally, dorset council’s children’s services have engaged with a number of organisations to undertake specific pieces of laboratory testing work related to children’s social care (child protection) as well as care proceedings that can meet court deadlines and specifications. this includes hair strand testing for drug and alcohol use and dna / paternity testing. mostly such work is mandated by the courts during child protection proceedings. the laboratory work must meet certain set iso standards to be valid in court proceedings which are set out in the service specification. through a new block contract the council want to facilitate a structured approach to accessing laboratory testing services to support our staff in their work with children, young people and families and ultimately improve child and family outcomes. because of the varied nature of the work emanating from social care staff from across the whole of the dorset council area as well as from our legal services team we want to develop a robust contract with a suitably accredited service provider, that is easily accessible and can deliver highly efficient and accurate laboratory tests. the contract term is for 4 years at a maximum of £40,000 per annum, therefore a total contract value of £160,000.