Content

Approved

Reasons for the decision

Under the Health and Social Care Act
(2012)
This contract expires on 31 December 2025, the successful
partnership with SBC and BFC during the period of the current
contract has been collaborative and focussed on residents’
outcomes and service improvement.

Alternative options considered

Do nothing: The provision of a Local
Healthwatch Service is a statutory duty for local authorities under
the Health and Social Care Act 2012.
This option would mean the existing contract would lapse in
December 2025 without ongoing arrangements in place, bringing the
Council into breach of its obligations.
This option is not compliant with the contracting and procurement
standing orders and regulations as the existing contract will have
reached the end of all possible extension options by December 2025
and is, therefore, not permissible.