Purpose

This report recommends the contract award to Via Community
Ltd whose quotation has been successful in meeting the quality
criteria identified for the delivery of a drug and alcohol service
specifically for rough sleepers. The service includes a number of
specific roles which form a virtual team; a nurse prescriber,
specialist drug and alcohol outreach workers and a specialist
women’s worker.  This team will work with
the borough’s existing street outreach service, Routes off
The Streets, to provide drug and alcohol treatment to rough
sleepers which will include rapid access to opiate substitute
prescribing, flexible pathways to in-patient detox and residential
rehabilitation facilities, access to a dedicated nurse, and
specific support for female rough
sleepers. 
 
The new contract will run for 12 months commencing on
1st April 2024, for a value of £420,000 and is
fully funded from a successful bid to the Office for Health
Improvements and Disparities.
 
In December 2023, officers undertook a Request for
Quotation procedure with three suppliers as required under Contract
Standing Orders. Only one application was received from the current
provider organisation – Via Community Ltd.
 
This report is being presented to
the Director of Health and Wellbeing in accordance with Contract
Standing Orders.
 
 

Content

THAT the Director of Health and Wellbeing agrees
the award of the contract to
Via Community Ltd for a period of 12 months from 1st
April 2024 for the sum of £420,000.