Decision

To approve the re-procurement of the Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) Service through a competitive procurement process and the publication of tender documents to secure future service provision.

Reasons for the decision

The current contract for the Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) Service will end on 31st March 2026. A procurement process is therefore required to ensure the continued provision of an accessible, high-quality service that meets the needs of residents and delivers value for money. The proposed procurement will enable the Council to secure a provider that can deliver the service in line with current priorities and identified resident need.

Alternative options considered

Options considered included allowing the current contract to expire, extending the existing arrangement, delivering the service in-house, and undertaking a competitive procurement process. The first three options were rejected due to the risk of service disruption, procurement compliance considerations, and the benefits of securing an experienced provider through a competitive process. Re-procurement was therefore identified as the preferred option to ensure continued service delivery and value for money.