Purpose

To agree an additional 12 months on current contracts to allow for a revised commissioning process designed to secure MTFS savings, long term stability for residents and inward investment into recently purchased properties.

Decision

1. Agreed to award without competition pursuant to CSO 22.3.2 (d) where additional services are required and a change in supplier would result in a service that is incompatible with the existing goods and services and would result in a disproportionate operational and technical difficulties for the provision, to Choice Support  (Company number: RS009045) for the provision of residential services for adults with learning disabilities.
2. Noted that the contract term is from 1st April 2026 and ending on 31st March 2027, with the option to extend for further period/s up to 12 further months to 31st March 2028, for a contract value of up to £7,187,829.80 for the maximum two year period.
3. Noted that the total value of the initial 12 month contractual period will be £3,422,779, reflecting a negotiated reduction of £170,000 against the 2025/26 baseline spend of £3,592,779, in line with the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS).  
4. Noted that this time-limited direct award (with a potential extension) is required to enable the Council to explore options for future service provision including arrangements for management and investment into the five properties. 
5. Noted that officers intend to return with a substantive decision on the preferred long term commissioning approach no later than October 2026.