Purpose

HomeStart Host Ltd is currently contracted to deliver a variety of specific, targeted services through Oldham’s Family Hubs Offer. These services are fully funded by the Department for Education (DfE) as part of this offer. DfE have just confirmed continued Family Hubs funding for Oldham for an additional 3 years.
To streamline services, avoid any gaps in delivery and ensure the best outcomes for Oldham’s vulnerable families we are seeking to extend the current HomeStart contract up until 30 September 2026 and to use that time to go out to the market with a full, transparent competitive tender for one provider to deliver a variety of Family Hub services from 1 October 2026 up until 30 September 2029.

Decision

RESOLVED - That:
• To align and extend the HomeStart Host Family Hubs services outlined in this report up until 30 September 2026. This will prevent any gaps in service delivery and ensure retention of experienced, skilled staff and volunteers to deliver Oldham based services and achieve outcomes for residents.

Reasons for the decision

Option 1 - • To extend the HomeStart Host Family Hubs services contract outlined in this report up until 30 September 2026. This will prevent any gaps in service delivery and ensure retention of experienced, skilled staff and volunteers to deliver Oldham based services and achieve outcomes for residents.

Option 2 - • Do not extend the HomeStart services contract term. This option is not recommended as this would reduce services available for families and could impact on any future DfE funding.

Alternative options considered

n/a