Direct answer
A Requires Improvement rating does not create an automatic national ban on bidding, but a specific tender may set a minimum rating or score regulatory history. Read the pass/fail condition first. If the tender permits the bid, address the current position honestly with dated actions, governance, evidence of improvement and the relevance of the rated location.
Separate a pass/fail bar from a scored concern
If the documents state a minimum rating and the provider does not meet it, writing cannot cure the failure. If the rating is evaluated more broadly, the response must show control and improvement rather than minimise the finding.
Build an evidence trail, not a reassurance paragraph
Use the inspection report, action plan, named owners, completion records, audits, outcomes and governance minutes. Explain what changed, when it changed, how effectiveness is checked and what evidence is available to the buyer.
Check which location and entity the buyer means
Multi-location groups can be assessed differently depending on the tender wording. Confirm whether the buyer tests the bidding entity, the delivery location, an average position or the most recent relevant rating. Use a clarification if necessary.