Purpose

This decision seeks approval to the direct award of a contract for provision of Occupational Therapy (OT) for pupils in mainstream Brent schools.

Decision

(1)      To note that the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools had granted an exemption from the requirement to tender for the contract.

(2)      To note the considerations supporting the direct award of contract.

(3)      To approve the direct award of the contract for provision of Occupational Therapy for pupils in mainstream Brent schools from 1 Sept 23 to 31 March 25 at a value of £420,888 to Central London Community Health NHS Trust.

(4)      To note the change of North West London Clinical Commissioning Group to the North West London Integrated Care Partnership.

Reasons for the decision

The Council requires the provision of Occupational Therapy for pupils in mainstream schools in order to meet statutory requirements.

Alternative options considered

Consideration has been given as to whether the provision of Occupational Therapy for pupils in mainstream Brent schools can be provided direct by the Council but it has been assessed that these services would best be provided by a specialist provider.  Having reviewed the procurement options available the most appropriate means of securing a contractor was identified as a direct award.  The proposed award will ensure that the statutory duty on the local authority can continue to be met, whilst also providing continuity of service and enable a review of future delivery options.