Purpose

East Sussex County Council is satisfied with
the delivery of this contract and there are no performance issues.
It is therefore considered that the contract will continue to
provide value for money and good outcomes for East Sussex
residents.

Decision

To take up the 24-month extension period for
the Healthwatch and Independent Health Complaints Advocacy
Contract, until 31 March 2027, with a 5% reduction to the annual
contract value.

Alternative options considered

Other options were discussed with the provider
including a greater saving, however a greater saving would reduce
service and staffing capacity for engagement, information and
support and advocacy functions – and the data shows demand is
increasing (and likely to increase further). Therefore, this was
not the preferred option – especially with a difficult time
ahead for residents and the sector.

Re-procurement of the contract was not considered at this time as
the current provider is performing well and the current contract
has an allowed for extension period.