Purpose

The purpose of this report is
to seek approval to proceed with a procurement process, to provide
an intelligent automated platform to act as a digital front door to
Children’s Services. The three year contract would be awarded
through a procurement framework and would encompass three phases of
work, highlighted in more detail below. We are currently engaged
with colleagues in procurement to ensure compliance with
procurement legislation and the Council’s internal Contract
Procedure Rules.

Decision

Decision(s):
 
(1)  
the commencement of a procurement exercise for digital front door
for Children’s Services be approved

 
(2)  
authority be delegated to the Executive Director - Children’s
Social Care and Education to award the contract, following
completion of the procurement exercise
 
 
Reason(s) for the
Decision(s):
 
There is an expectation, according to DfE
guidance, local authorities have a robust virtual offer for Family
Hubs as well as a physical presence. 
 
Similarly, local authorities have a duty to
publish a Local Offer, setting out in one place information about
provision they expect to be available in their area across
education, health and social care for children and young people in
their area who have SEN or are disabled, including those who do not
have EHC plans.
 
Alternative Options
Considered and Rejected
 
Consideration and exploration was given to providing this functionality in house,
however the level of engagement and sophistication could not be
met.