Purpose

GMCA is currently commissioning the Greater Manchester Rehabilitation Services (GMRS), which provides targeted support for people on probation with unmet needs. The service aims to reduce the risk of reoffending by addressing underlying barriers and enabling individuals to move towards more stable, pro-social outcomes. The GMRS contract is a high-value commission, expected to exceed £5m per annum.

A core feature of the proposed delivery model is the use of geographically distributed community-based hubs. These hubs are intended to operate as safe and accessible spaces for service delivery within local communities and to support a ‘one-stop shop’ approach through the co-location of probation staff and specialist support services. The suitability, accessibility and viability of the estate underpinning this model will be fundamental to effective service delivery.

As a result, the ability to robustly assess the estate elements of future bids is critical to the success of the procurement and the long-term sustainability of the service. Specialist estates expertise is required at this stage to inform the service specification, define realistic and deliverable estate expectations, and ensure that bidders can be assessed fairly and consistently against these requirements.

It is also the ambition of Safer and Stronger Communities for these Well-being hubs and Women’s Centres to be the cornerstone of the Whole System Approach to Diversion where problematic, persistent or prolific offenders will be engaged and directed to support in these centres to address unmet need, reduce the likelihood further offending and provide opportunities for the individual to live a more fulfilling life.

Decision

GMCA is seeking authorisation to fund Cowburn Watson-Box to undertake a Strategic Review of the estate required to deliver an effective future Greater Manchester Rehabilitation Service. The funding required is £16,965 for a 15-month period.