Decision

1. that the Director of Public Health in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, Public Health and Inequalities be given delegated authority to award the contract to the selected provider as a result of a compliant procurement process; and
2. that this decision will be on the basis that through the procurement procedure none of the specification, the budget nor the procurement processes proposed are materially different from what is outlined in the submitted report. If any of these do change materially, an updated report will be submitted for reconsideration before the Director of Public Health awards the contract.

Reasons for the decision

A new procurement would enable expansion and modernisation of the service, including the introduction of digital and self-management support, improved behavioural interventions, and targeted communications to increase engagement.  The approach supported the Council’s public health objectives, including reducing smoking prevalence, addressing health inequalities, and contributing to the Smokefree 2030 ambition.  It also ensured compliance with ring-fenced public health grant conditions, including requirements to maintain investment in smoking services and achieve specified quit targets.

Alternative options considered

Three options had been considered.  The option to recommission the service using the existing specification and budget was discounted as it would not enable modernisation or meet the increased activity required through additional funding.  The option to commission a combined children’s and adult service was also rejected due to a lack of suitable providers and differing service needs between population groups.  The preferred option, was to procure an adult-only specialist stop smoking service with an updated specification and budget to allow for expansion, innovation and improved outcomes.