The Executive Decision meeting held on Wednesday 23 September 2026 saw Councillor Daisy Richards, Portfolio Lead Member for Children and Young People, ratify a 12-month extension to the existing Framework Agreement for 16+ Semi-Independent Accommodation and Support Services. This decision was made to ensure continuity of service for looked after children and care-experienced young adults while new commissioning and procurement arrangements are implemented.

16+ Semi-Independent Accommodation & Support Framework - Variation Report

Councillor Daisy Richards, Portfolio Lead Member for Children and Young People, ratified the variation of the existing Framework Agreement for 16+ Semi-Independent Accommodation and Support Services. This extension will run for 12 months, from 1 June 2026 to 31 May 2027. The purpose of this variation is to ensure the continuity of service for looked after children aged 16–18 and care-experienced young adults aged 18–25, while the council develops and implements new commissioning and procurement arrangements, including the establishment of a Dynamic Market of providers.

The report detailed that the original framework, which commenced on 1 June 2022 and was due to expire on 31 May 2026, had been extended retrospectively. This extension was deemed necessary because the existing pricing model had become unsustainable for providers following the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis, leading some to withdraw or seek revised rates. The council's Strategic Commissioning Board had already approved a 12-month extension on 14 May 2026 to ensure compliance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015¹.

The report outlined that the current framework provides access to quality-assured providers, but the council also uses spot purchasing for approximately 20 providers when demand cannot be met through the framework. Over the term of the framework, 578 placements had been commissioned. The extension aims to reduce reliance on spot purchasing and create a more flexible and sustainable route to market.

A comprehensive review of the service model, market position, and commissioning arrangements is underway, with findings to inform the future commissioning approach. An indicative procurement timetable was provided, detailing key milestones from market engagement in July 2026 through to contract award in May 2027 and contract mobilisation in June 2027.

The decision was made in line with various national legislation, including the Children Act 1989 and the Children (Leaving Care) Act 2000, as well as council strategic priorities focused on ensuring every child can access the services and support they need to thrive. An equality screening exercise determined that the proposal would have a positive impact on age, by providing consistent living and care arrangements and additional support services to young people transitioning into adulthood. No negative impacts were identified for any protected characteristics. The variation was considered a permitted variation under Regulation 72(1)(b) of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.

The decision maker, Councillor Daisy Richards, ratified the variation, noting that no alternative options were considered as the framework had already been extended. The decision is subject to call-in until 30 September 2026.