Purpose

To request authority to vary a contract in respect of Voluntary and Community Infrastructure Support Service with CVS Brent.

Decision

That the Corporate Director Partnerships, Housing and Residents Services:

i)             Approves the variation of the contract for Voluntary and Community Infrastructure Support Services with CVS Brent as follows:

a.    A reduction in the targets for several Key Performance Indicators in order to reach a ‘Green’ rating.

b.    The removal of a number of Key Performance Indicators.

c.    A reduction in the value of the contract from £190k to £100k during the second year of the contract up until 12 April 2025.

Reasons for the decision

Whilst Brent Council does not have a statutory duty to provide Voluntary and Community Infrastructure Support, Brent Council is committed to supporting the Voluntary and Community Sector to be strong, vibrant and diverse where communities are empowered to solve problems important to them. As such, CVS Brent was awarded a Voluntary and Community Infrastructure Support Service contract following a tendering process in April 2023. Due to issues with performance of the contract, the Council and CVS agreed it would be best to focus on service delivery in core areas by lowering and / or removing other Key Performance Indicators and lowering the value of the contract accordingly. Officers consider that CVS Brent has the necessary expertise and resources to deliver the reduced level of service and can still provide significant benefits to local communities whilst complementing the Council’s strategic priorities.

Alternative options considered

Officers consider that varying the contract is in the best interest of the Council as the current provider is providing the service and has agreed to focus on service delivery in core areas. Varying the contract would save time and cost compared to re-procuring the services.