Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: November 5, 2024

Purpose: Cabinet is recommended to approve the Open Procurement for the recommissioning of the In-Borough Home to School Transport Service.  

Content: Cabinet: (1)          approved the commencement of an Open Procedure exercise for the recommissioning of the In-borough Home to School Transport contract for children and young people with SEND aged 5-19 and up to 25 for young people with an EHCP and who are residents of Waltham Forest. The contract will commence on 1st September 2025 for an initial three (3) year period until 31st August 2028, with the option to further extend for a further two (2) years until 31st August 2030. (The total spend on the transport contract in 2023/24 was £3,328,197 against a budget of £2,278,300); and (2)          delegated approval of the appointment of the successful provider and contractual arrangements to the Strategic Director of Children Services, in consultation with the Strategic Director of Stronger Communities, the Strategic Director of Resources and the Portfolio Lead Member for Children’s Services.   Options & Alternatives Considered   In assessing the future strategic options for the delivery of the in-borough home to school transport, the effective strategic options include:   ·         Open procedure procurement. ·         Do nothing (not viable). ·         Collaborative procurement with neighbouring boroughs. ·         Combine more than one element of the overall SEND transport provision. ·         Manage the service in-house. ·         Direct award to the current provider.