Purpose

Following a full commissioning and open
procurement exercise, the Forward Carers CIC bid was the highest
scoring Most Economic Advantageous Tender.

A moderation panel reviewed 5 bids and Forward Carers ranked number
1 with an overall score of 88.6% /100.

This service will improve the lives of carers in Sandwell and
support the Council to fulfil its duty under the Care Act
2014.

The contract value is £1.5m and will be awarded for 5
years.

This approach will support Sandwell to fulfil its statutory duty
and enable people to access quality information, advice, and
guidance instead of a waiting list as the first option. The
proposed service will improve the customer journey, ensuring
practical advice and support is made available in a timelier
manner. This revised approach will vastly improve the offer for
carers. Carers will be directed to the support required that will
enable carers to continue in their caring role and live a good
life.

Extensive engagement carried out. This included a survey of 157
carers, and people who support them, from March – May 15,
2024, and 7 focus groups. Over 200 people took part in the
engagement. A small group of carers will continue to co-produce the
service functions and specification with commissioners.

Content

The further to Cabinet decision 133/24 -
Authority to Procure a Sandwell Carers Support Service - Cabinet
Meeting Wednesday, 4 December 2024 - approval be given to award the
Sandwell Carers Service Contract Forward Carers CIC for a period of
5 years with a contract value of £1.5 million.

Alternative options considered

An option appraisal was carried out and
presented in the Cabinet Decision Report. It demonstrated that a
compliant procurement exercise was required.

A further four providers did submit a bid but were lower scoring
than the selected provider.