Purpose

This report seeks approval to procure a 3-year
contract, with the option to extend for up to 2 further years for
toxicology services. The toxicology contract is to be awarded by
the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham on behalf of the West
London Coroner's Service.

Decision

That Appendices 1 and
2 are not for publication on the grounds that they contain
information relating to the financial or business affairs of any
particular person (including the authority holding the information)
pursuant to Schedule 12A, paragraph 3 Local Government Act
1972.

 

To note the amendment
to the previously approved strategy to acknowledge the jurisdiction of the
Provider Selection Regime over the Public Contracts Regulations
2015 (‘Regulations’) for healthcare and related goods
and services, and that those Regulations be followed to determine
the award of contract using Direct Award Process C.

 

Subject to receiving
no written representations from providers during a standstill
period, to approve the award of the contract for toxicology
services to Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for a
2-year contract, with the option to extend for up to 2 further
years.

 

In the event that
written representations are made during the standstill period, to
make a further decision in accordance with the Regulations whether
to enter into the contract or go back to an earlier step and repeat
that step and subsequent steps in accordance with the procedure set
out at Direct Award Process C.

 

Reasons for the decision

The current contract with
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals for the provision of toxicology
services is due to expire on 31/12/2024 and it cannot be extended.
Analysis of toxicology is vital to help ascertain the cause of
death for some deceased who have been referred to the coroner for
investigation. The Award of contract will enable the Council to
comply with Contract Standing Orders and PSR
obligations.
 

Alternative options considered

As described on the
appendices.