Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: December 11, 2024

Purpose:

Content: 15.1 The Assistant Director of Commissioning, Children and Families introduced the report which highlighted to the Committee that the Framework is in an extension year of a 4-year contract which requires recommissioning to ensure compliance with procurement regulations.   15.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Adult Health and Social Care Policy Committee:- Note that the Education, Children and Families Committee on 5th November 2024, the recommissioning of a 4 year plus a potential extension year of the Short Breaks Framework Agreement through competitive tender process with the open market. Note that the Education, Children and Families Committee on 5th November 2024 approved the inclusion of Outward Bounds at a static level over 4 years and Activity Based Residential Short Breaks on the new Framework. Note that the Education, Children and Families Committee on 5th November 2024 approved the overall 4-year budget £5,750,000 for Lots1 and 2 on the new Framework. Lot 3 Activity Based Residential Short Breaks budget to be identified and agreed at a further date. 15.3 Reasons for Decision 15.3.1 The Framework Agreement has expired and must be recommissioned to meet procurement regulations. Our understanding of need, demand and the lived experience of children and families living with disabilities has developed over the years, along with our experience and understanding of effectively managing a Framework Agreement to commission services for children with disabilities. It's essential that this learning, and evidence be translated into a new commissioning arrangement that is fit for purpose for the next four years. 15.3.2 It’s essential that we build sufficiency into the new Framework to ensure that we meet demand, and prevent furthermore costly interventions, providing preventative support to families who need it the most, as per our statutory duty. 15.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected 15.4.1 Alternative Option 1: Further extension of the current contract This is not viable due to procurement regulations. The current Framework is not currently set up to flex adequately to meet demand, and the current Lots are not fit for purpose to fully support inclusion, choice and access. Outward Bounds and Activity Based Residential Short Breaks have no formal commissioning Framework for purchasing services and quality assuring them. Current Providers are lethargic with commissioning arrangements at present, and some have indicated that they would not agree to further extension under the terms and conditions of the current Framework. There is a risk to service continuity and a reputational risk for the council. 15.4.2 Alternative Option 2: Do nothing This not viable for the same reasons as above. The Framework must comply with procurement regulations and is in an extension year of a 4-year contract.