Purpose

To consider directly awarding the Bath West Children’s Centre Service to the existing provider for a further year (until 31st March 2025), in order to align commissioning intentions with other strategic aims.

Decision

To agree that a direct award for the Bath West Children’s Centre Service be made to the existing provider for a further year (until 31st March 2025).

Reasons for the decision

To allow time for work to align with the early help review which will inform the future response required from the wider early help system, of which the Bath West Service offer is integral, to be able to respond, adapt and meet children and families’ needs.

Alternative options considered

The option to undertake a tender exercise for a new contract to commence in April 2024 was considered but discounted to allow time for the service to be included in a wider early help review.