Expression of Interest: Engaging deaf people, domestic abuse survivors, young people and New Scots in democracy

The Electoral Commission is seeking expressions of interest for Action Research Projects 2026/27 to increase democratic participation among under-represented groups. The procurement is divided into four specific lots: Deaf people and BSL users (Lot 1), domestic abuse survivors and those with electoral register safety risks (Lot 2), young people in England (Lot 3), and New Scots, specifically refugees and eligible individuals in Scotland (Lot 4). The primary objective is to improve voter education regarding eligibility, registration, and the identification of disinformation through participatory approaches such as co-creation and co-design. The total estimated value of the procurement is 172,500 GBP including VAT, with year one budgets ranging from 12,500 GBP for Lot 4 to 80,000 GBP for Lot 1. Performance periods generally begin in November 2026, with potential extensions through March 2030 subject to budget approval and performance. Tenders will be evaluated based on the ability to deliver outcomes (40 percent), impact and evaluation (20 percent), and a combined 40 percent split between timescales, management, safeguarding, and total cost. The deadline for tender submissions is October 28, 2026, at 12:00pm.