Content

It is agreed that the Cabinet Member delegates
authority to the Director of Adult Social Care, to commence a
procurement exercise for the provision of Healthwatch for 5 years,
with the existing annual contract value of
£180,250.

Reasons for the decision

Healthwatch is a statutory service, and the
current provision is due to expire. A new contract is therefore
required to meet our statutory obligations.

Alternative options considered

Option 1 – Do Nothing

This is not a viable option for a statutory service. The Council
has an obligation to meet its statutory duty and provide a
Healthwatch service.

Option 2 – Reduce the level of funding

Given the lobbying by Healthwatch England and the evidence stating
the impact on delivery with low levels of investment, this does not
align with our priorities. This option is not recommended at a time
when Sandwell are working to improve the way it ‘hears’
people’s views.

Option 3 – Increase the funding

Due to budget pressures facing adult social care and the wider
Council do not support additional funding.

Option 4 – Maintain the current budget of £180,250
annually.

The current budget is in line with neighbouring authorities and
meets the requirements of funding above £100k. Additional
investment is recognised by Healthwatch England and currently
Sandwell meet the funding criteria.

The provider may be able to income generate by undertaking
additional pieces of commissioned work via health partners or wider
council teams. It is recognised that the level has remained the
same for some years however, it is line with the acceptable
thresholds for Healthwatch England.

Option 4 is the recommended option.