Issue - meetings

The Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health Integration introduced a report on the proposals to procure a framework contract for the provision of short break services for disabled children and young people and their families.

The Cabinet Member stressed the importance of the service, which not only offered disabled children and young people new experiences and opportunities to form friendships but also provided much needed respite for carers and other family members.  The COVID-19 pandemic had highlighted the significant value of such initiatives and the Cabinet Member confirmed that the new four-year framework arrangements, to commence in April 2022, would enhance the current offer as well as open up the service provision to local providers and those offering bespoke, specialist services aimed at those with specific needs.

It was also noted that the Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health Integration intended to discuss with the Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, whose portfolio included overseeing the management of the Trewern Outdoor Activity Centre in Herefordshire, the potential for the Centre to offer services beyond the current educational setting.

Cabinet resolved to:

(i)  Agree that the Council proceeds with the procurement of a contract for Short Breaks provision in accordance with the strategy set out in the report; and

(ii)  Authorise the Commissioning Director, Care and Support, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health Integration, the Strategic Director of Law and Governance and the Managing Director, to conduct the procurement and award and enter into the contract(s) and all other necessary or ancillary agreements with the successful bidder, in accordance with the strategy set out in the report.