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 Home Care Framework to replace the current contract which would expire on 31 March 2026. The report outlined the rationale for the new framework, including the need to maintain market stability, support increasing demand, and ensure high-quality care provision aligned with the Care Act 2014.

The report explained that the new framework would be a single-lot contract running for an initial five-year term, with the option to extend for a further five years. The estimated total value of the contract was £127.7 million over the full term, based on an annual spend of £10.5 million with assumed inflation and demand growth.

The Committee noted that the new framework would introduce:

·       A stronger focus on reablement and enablement.

·       Flexibility to evolve the service over the contract lifecycle.

·       Support for people with complex needs to remain at home.

·       A formalised process for commissioning live-in care.

·       Mandatory use of the Mosaic Provider Portal for electronic invoicing.

·       A single-tiered framework with consistent quality standards.

Engagement work would be undertaken with service users, including the establishment of a Home Care Working Together Group to co-produce elements of the specification and tender process.

In response to questions it was noted that home care framework providers were closely monitored and reviewed. Concerns about providers were addressed through quality monitoring, safeguarding teams and collaboration with other local authorities. Regarding supporting people in taking medications a piece of work was being led by the Integrated Care Board to train home care providers to support delegated tasks.

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 to be granted delegated authority to: 

·       Procure and enter into a contract with the 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.