Decision details

13.1

The Chief operating Officer submitted a report setting out the need for a continuous Agency Staffing Service and providing background on the current service. The report proposes the commission of an Agency Staffing Service from an external provider and explains why this service is needed and cannot be delivered in-house.

13.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That Strategy and Resources Policy Committee approves the commissioning of the Agency Staffing Service from an external provider over a period of 5 years and for an estimated value of £65m, as set out in the report now submitted.

13.3

Reasons for Decision

13.3.1

To commission an external provider to provide the service for 5 years for an estimated value of £65m to:

·       ensure continued access to an Agency Staffing Provision that supports the Councils service delivery requirements.

·       minimise the risks that were identified during the consideration of alternative options.

·       ensure statutory services are delivered and to avoid significant pressure placed on existing employees.

13.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

13.4.1

Provision of an In-house Service. The provision of an in-house service has been considered but due to the factors set out in the report, in particular paragraph 1.18 this option has been discounted.

13.4.2

Do Nothing. The option to do nothing would mean upon the expiry of the current contract on 31 March 2024 the Council would be unable to deliver a number of critical services impacting on the citizens of Sheffield