Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek approval, in accordance with Contract Procedure Rule 5.3.2, for the award of contract to the winning bidder as identified in Appendix B for Interpretation, Translation and Transcription services from 09th October 2026 to 08th October 2030.

The reason for the decision is that a compliant procurement exercise has been undertaken in accordance with Contract Procedure Rule 5.3.2, and the winning bidder has been identified as providing the most advantageous offer to the Council.

Decision

(i)       That, in accordance with Contract Procedure Rule 5.3.2, a contract be awarded to the winning bidder as identified in Appendix B for Interpretation, Translation and Transcription services from 09th October 2026 to 08th October 2030.

(ii)       That the Procurement Team be authorised to make the necessary arrangements for the issue of the relevant contract documentation after conclusion of the standstill period.

Alternative options considered

Do Nothing: This option was considered and rejected on the basis that Knowsley

Council provides a range of public services and needs to ensure equality of access

to relevant services for its residents as part of its statutory duty.

Deliver in house: This option was considered and rejected to the lack of specialist skills required to deliver the service.