Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek approval to modify the contract with Volair Limited for Short Breaks; Swimming for disabled children by extending the term by 12 months as provided for within the existing contract at clause B1 from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026.

The reasons for the decision are, as required by Contract Procedure Rule 9.3.1. (a): The modification is provided for within the existing contract at clause B1 in precise and clear detail with regards to scope, nature and conditions under which the modification may be used.

Decision

(i)       That, in accordance with Contract Procedure Rule 9.3.1(a), the contract with Volair Limited for Short Breaks; Swimming for disabled children be modified by extending the term by 12 months as provided for within the existing contract at clause B1 from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026; and

(ii)       That the Procurement Team be authorised to issue the relevant contract modification documentation.

Alternative options considered

Do Nothing: This option was considered and rejected due to the Swimming Lessons service providing additionality to our current commissioned targeted Short Breaks service.

The commissioned targeted Short Breaks service is a statutory duty under the Children Act 1989 for the Local Authority to provide (as part of a range of services for families) breaks from caring for carers of disabled children; and to support them to continue to care for their children at home and to allow them to do so more effectively. Whilst not providing a break from caring, the structured swimming was noted by parents/ carers and children with disabilities as one of the most popular activities during the 2019 consultation full-service review of Short Breaks.

Seek Competition (Quotation / Tender): A competitive exercise at this stage would not be beneficial as it would cause disruption to children/young people and families accessing the service. Additionally, the 12-month extension period is provided for within the current contracts and the Provider is delivering the service satisfactorily. Future intentions for this service provision are to utilize the 12-month extension to conduct a full review of the service including consultation with children/young people and families.

No other options have been considered.