Decision details

10.1

The Executive Director, Communities submitted a report setting out the background to, and ambition for, the first phase of the Independent Living Solutions programme and sought approvals in relation to the proposed procurement strategy.

10.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:-

(a)

approves the commissioning of and procurement strategy for the redesigned equipment service;

(b)

delegates authority to the Director of Commissioning (Communities), in consultation with the Interim Director of Legal and Governance and the Interim Director of Commercial Services to take the necessary steps to agree the pooled budget arrangements with the CCG and amend the Section 75 Agreement;

(c)

subject to agreement being reached with the CCG and the Section 75 agreement being amended, delegates authority to the Director of Commissioning to take the necessary steps to implement the procurement strategy for the redesigned equipment service in consultation with the Interim Director of Commercial Services and the Interim Director of Legal and Governance;

(d)

delegates authority to the Director of Commissioning in consultation with the Interim Director of Legal and Governance to award the contract for the redesigned equipment service; and

(e)

delegates authority to the Director of Commissioning in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Independent Living and the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, as appropriate, to take such steps as he deems appropriate to achieve the outcomes set out in the report.

10.3

Reasons for Decision

10.3.1

The current contract for the supply and loan of equipment to help people live independently ends in June 2015 and we need a replacement arrangement to meet our statutory duties. We also need to refresh the scope and specification of the contract so that we can:

·      achieve better outcomes and increased value for money where possible

·      deliver against increasing customer expectations

·      future-proof the service in light of proposed changes to legislation, guidance and operational requirements e.g. the Care Act, 7-day working commitment in the NHS, the Children and Families Act.

10.3.2

In order to maximise the efficiency of the proposed new service the Council needs to work with the CCG.

10.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

10.4.1

Do nothing: This option was not favoured because the Council had legal duties to provide equipment to people in need as set out above.

10.4.2

Extend the contract with the current provider: This option was not favoured because it was believed that the service needed to achieve greater value for money and increase its impact. However, proposals would also be welcomed from the current provider on how they could achieve this (as per the new contract specification).

10.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

10.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

10.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Laraine Manley, Executive Director, Communities

10.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Healthier Communities and Adult Social Care and Children, Young People and Family Support