Purpose

To request authority to extend a contract in
respect of Advocacy Services – Care Act Advocacy, Mental
Health Act Advocacy (IMHA), Independent Mental Capacity Act
Advocacy (IMCA) and Relevant Person’s Paid Representative
(RPPR) with POhWER.

Content

That the Corporate Director of Service Reform
and Strategy:
 
i)              
Approves the extension of the contract for the provision of
Advocacy Services – Care Act Advocacy, Mental Health Act
Advocacy (IMHA), Independent Mental Capacity Act Advocacy (IMCA)
and Relevant Person’s Paid Representative (RPPR) with
POhWER for a period of 12 months.
 

Reasons for the decision

The Council entered into a contract for the
provision of Advocacy Services with POhWER on 2 August 2023. The contract contains
provision permitting extension of the contract by 12 months.
Officers consider extending the contract by 12 months will achieve
best value for the Council and is reasonable in all the
circumstances.

Alternative options considered

Alternative approaches, including
re-procurement and delivering the service in-house have been
explored, however, these options are currently neither
cost-effective or operationally viable. The Council does not
possess the necessary expertise to deliver the service internally.
Extending the existing contract is therefore the preferred option
as it ensures continuity of service for both residents and the
Council.