The Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities is scheduled to consider a business case for the recommissioning of the Integrated Sexual Health Service (ISHS). The meeting will also include standard procedural items such as the confirmation of previous minutes and opportunities for questions from county councillors and public address.

Integrated Sexual Health Service Contract Approval

The most significant item on the agenda is the potential approval of a business case for the recommissioning of the Integrated Sexual Health Service (ISHS). The report outlines that the ISHS is a legally mandated public health service, currently delivered by Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUHFT). The current contract began on 1 April 2019 and is due to end on 31 March 2027.

The recommendation is to approve the business case and the option to recommission the ISHS, continuing with the current tariff-based payment model and utilising the Provider Selection Regime (PSR). The Cabinet Member is also asked to delegate authority to the Director of Public Health to approve the recommissioning of the ISHS contract for a period of 5 plus 3 years, commencing from 1 April 2027.

The ISHS provides a range of services including sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, diagnosis and treatment, as well as reproductive healthcare. It operates across nine healthcare settings in Oxfordshire, including primary care and acute sites, and also offers online and self-care options. The service is structured into tiers, from basic to complex care, aligning with national policy. The current contract is valued at a maximum of £5,600,000 per year, funded by the Public Health Grant.

The report highlights that the ISHS aligns with Oxfordshire County Council's (OCC) corporate policies and local strategic priorities, including tackling inequalities, improving children and young people's health, and creating a healthier Oxfordshire. It also contributes to the Marmot Place Programme's goal of a fairer, healthier Oxfordshire. Nationally, the service supports delivery against several Public Health Outcomes Framework (PHOF) measures and aligns with ambitions set out by the Department of Health and Social Care, including the HIV Action Plan for England and the Women's Health Strategy for England. Furthermore, it is expected to contribute to the 10 Year Health Plan for England by shifting care into the community, embracing digital services, and focusing on preventative interventions.

The report also addresses financial, legal, staff, equality, inclusion, sustainability, and risk management implications. The Council has a statutory duty under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 to provide open access sexual health services. The report indicates that the conditions are met to directly award the contract under the PSR without competitive tendering, based on the Direct Award Process C.

Other Agenda Items

The meeting will also include:

• Declarations of Interest: A standard item where councillors declare any interests relevant to the agenda items.
• Minutes of the Previous Meeting: To confirm the accuracy of the minutes from the meeting held on 7 October 2025.
• Questions from County Councillors: An opportunity for county councillors to ask questions on agenda items, with responses provided by the relevant Cabinet Member or officer.
• Petitions and Public Address: A session for members of the public to speak on agenda items or present petitions.