A report requesting the Committee to consider granting delegated authority for the procurement and entering into a contract for support/care services.

The Committee received a report seeking approval to commence procurement of a new Supported Living Framework to replace the current contract which expires on 31 March 2026. The report outlined the rationale for the new framework, including the need to improve quality, reduce reliance on off-framework spot purchases, and ensure the service meets the increasing complexity of needs within the borough.

The report explained that there were a total of 367 commissioned supported living packages currently in place.  83% (306 packages, 77% of annual spend) of these were under the current framework contract which consisted of 18 providers, 17 of which were active. The remaining 17% (61 packages, 23% of annual spend) were spot purchased between 28 off framework providers and were required for various reasons, for example due to the current framework providers often not being able to meet complex needs.

The new framework would be structured into three Lots to better reflect the diversity of support needs:

·       Lot 1 – Supported Living (accommodation-based)

·       Lot 2 – Community Support (non-accommodation-based)

·       Lot 3 – Complex Needs (specialist provision)

The proposed contract would run for an initial five-year term, with the option to extend for a further five years, with an estimated total value of £150m over the full term. The framework would include standardised pricing for Lots 1 and 2, with a bespoke pricing model under development for Lot 3.

The Committee noted that the new framework would introduce:

·       Minimum accommodation standards aligned with national expectations.

·       A tiering system based on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to incentivise quality.

·       A strategic three-year workstream to embed cultural change and promote independence.

·       Enhanced oversight of complex needs provision and a focus on reducing residential placements.

The Committee also noted that engagement work would be undertaken with individuals with lived experience and the establishment of a “Working Together Supported Living Group” to co-produce elements of the specification.

In response to questions it was noted that there was expected capacity for services to meet the demands and work would be undertaken so that the right quality, training and support was provided. There was an expectation that care packages would be reviewed to a 12 month strategy.

Resolved –

(1)           That the Executive Director of Communities and Adult Social Care, in consultation with the Lead Councillor for Adult Social Care, the Director of Finance, and the Assistant Director of Legal and Democratic Services be given delegated authority, to:

·       Procure and enter into a contract with successful tenderer(s) for the support/care services to be provided.

The contract will be for up to 10 years (5 initial years and then up to 5 further years);

·       Negotiate with the successful tenderer(s) to mobilise the contract, vary the contract, extend the contract at the appropriate time and otherwise contract manage the contract throughout its lifecycle.