Decision details

To seek approval to commence an external EU compliant procurement process for a young carers service. A young carer’s service is currently provided by PSS Services.

The Cabinet considered the report of the Head of Schools and Families which provided details of proposals to commence an external EU compliant procurement process for a young carers service.

Decision Made: That

(1)       the Head of Schools and Families be authorised to conduct an external  EU compliant procurement process for a new contract to deliver the Young Carers Service, to run for a period of three years, with the option of 2 further one-year extensions;

(2)       approval be given to the basis of the evaluation of tenders as set out within the invitation to tender and in line with the contract procedure rules;

(3)       the Head of Schools and Families be authorised to accept the highestscoring tender in accordance with the approved basis of evaluation and to report on the outcome to the Cabinet Member - Children, Schools and Safeguarding; and

(4)       the Head of Schools and Families in consultation with the Cabinet Member - Children, Schools and Safeguarding be authorised to award the contract on completion of the tender process.

Reasons for Decision:

The current service  provider was awarded the contract many years ago and the service has not gone to open market in the interim. The service to be provided, linked directly to the Council’s aims in relation to Children and Young People and its responsibilities arising from statutory legislation.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:

The current contract was awarded many years ago, and the Council could continue with the current contractual agreement. This would lead to the Council being open to challenge from other providers who could provide the service.

Completing an external EU compliant procurement process for a young carers service would ensure the Council is procuring a service in line with its contract procedure rules and the Council obtains best value in regard to cost and quality.