Purpose

Contract Extensions for Domestic Abuse Safe Accommodation Services x 3 contracts; Refuge, Safe Accommodation and DA Respite Service

Decision

For the reasons set out in this report, the Corporate Director has decided to:

1)    Approve the activation of the extension of the contracts for the below services at the associated costs highlighted within Table 1 (section 6.5 of report):

·       Domestic Abuse Safe Accommodation Services (3 Lots) DN771595 for a period of 12 months from 1st September 2026 to 1st September 2027

·       Domestic Abuse Respite Service (DARS) DN723130 for a period of 12 months from 1st September 2026 to 1st September 2027; and

·       Domestic Abuse Refuge Services (2 Lots) DN570780 for a period of 4 months from 1st May 2027 to 1st September 2027, including the extension of the provision of DA children and family worker and an assistant psychologist (therapist) post from 1st May 2027 to 1st September 2027.

All extensions are in accordance with the provisions set out within the original contracts.

Alternative options considered

Option 1: Do nothing / Not extend contracts — This option was rejected as it would result in the cessation of all DA contracts for refuge, safe accommodation and DARS, placing the Council at significant risk of failing to meet its statutory duties under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. It would also lead to increased demand on temporary accommodation, particularly the use of hotels, and negatively impact outcomes for vulnerable individuals who need to flee their home because of domestic abuse.

Option 2: Re-procure services immediately — Whilst re-procurement is a future intention, this option was rejected at this stage due to the time required to undertake a compliant procurement process and the risk of service disruption. Extending the contracts via contract extension options set out within the contracts ensures continuity of provision while allowing sufficient time to develop a robust future commissioning approach aligned to funding certainty and system priorities

Option 3: Activate contract extensions — This is the preferred option and enables the Council to continue delivery of established, high-performing services without disruption. It ensures continuity for service users, maintains system stability, supports statutory compliance, and allows time for the development of longer-term commissioning arrangements.