The Committee considered a report recommending entering into block booked contracts for emergency accommodation.  The accommodation secured via block booked contracts would be used to meet the need of those experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping, ensuring a stable supply base of emergency accommodation at set prices over the life of the contract. This would replace existing processes and formalise arrangements between the Council and Providers.  The report had appended an Equality Impact Assessment of the proposal. 

Resolved –

(1)      That the procurement of block booked contracts of emergency accommodation, with each contract set at 12 months and including the option to extend by up to 24 months, be agreed;

(2)      That the Assistant Director of Housing and Communities, in consultation with the Lead Councillor for Housing and the Director of Finance, be given delegated authority to award contracts to successful bidders for the provision of emergency accommodation.

(Exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3).