Issue - meetings

The Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health Integration introduced a report on the plans to procure a contract for the provision of an extensive carers’ support service, to commence in February 2020.

The Cabinet Member referred to the new contract specification which covered a wide range of service requirements, including:

·  the provision of a digital-based platform for information, advice, signposting and referral for formal carers’ assessments;

·  the provision of telephone and face-to-face support services and flexible service delivery, including out of hours and weekends;

·  working with local health partners to raise awareness of carers and to support carers in accessing mental health and other relevant services;

·  the development and enabling of Peer Support Groups;

·  strategic partnership working to inform and develop the Carers’ Strategy and marketplace;

·  strategic partnership working to promote resilience and empowerment amongst carers and create a carer friendly community.

Cabinet resolved to:

(i)  Agree the procurement of a Carers’ Support Service for a period of three years commencing February 2020, with the option to extend for up to two years at the sole discretion of the Council; and

(ii)  Delegate authority to the Director of People and Resilience, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health Integration, the Director of Law and Governance and the Chief Operating Officer, to conduct the procurement and award and enter into the contract and all other necessary or ancillary agreements with the successful bidder in accordance with the strategy set out in the report.