Purpose

This report seeks approval to procure a service to provide drug
and alcohol support specifically for rough sleepers. The service
was originally commissioned in 2021 with an initial contract term
of 12 months (in line with grant funding from the Office of Health
Improvement and Disparities). An RfQ process was
undertaken, and two quotes were received; after evaluation the
contract was awarded to Via (formerly WDP). Camden
subsequently received funding to continue the service in 2022/23
and 2023/24 and after undertaking further RfQ
processes for those years, Via remain the incumbent
provider.
Despite advice from OHID that 2023/24 was the final year of
funding, the Health and Wellbeing Department were notified in
September 2023, that Camden would receive further grant funding for
the continuation of the service to cover the period April 2024
– March 2025. The value of the grant is approximately
£420,000. This will be the final year of grant funding.
Therefore, officers are seeking approval to undertake an
RfQ process for the provision of the drug and alcohol
service for rough sleepers for 2024/25 with a contract value for
c.£420,000.
The service operates in line with the key objectives of local
strategies and plans which include:

•        
We Make Camden which sets out a long term ambition for the Council
and strategic direction to make Camden a better borough; a place
where everyone has a chance to succeed and where nobody gets left
behind

•        
Camden Health and Wellbeing Strategy which sets out to reduce
alcohol related harm with a reduction in health inequalities, in
crime, disorder and offending

•        
Camden’s Rough Sleeping and Homeless Strategy (2019 –
2024) which sets out a number of priorities including a commitment
to support those experiencing the crisis of homelessness, helping
them to recover and regain their independence.
 
 

Content

THAT the Director of Health and Wellbeing approves the
procurement strategy, as set out in this report, for an estimated
value of no more than £420,000.