Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: July 15, 2025

Purpose: Approval to jointly commission with WNC a new contract/s for Domestic Abuse Refuge provision

Content: RESOLVED   KEY DECISION   That the Executive:   a)        Authorised commencement of procurement, jointly with West Northamptonshire Council, for safe accommodation (refuge) provision for victims and survivors of domestic abuse within Northamptonshire. b)        Delegated authority to the Assistant Director of Communities and Leisure, in consultation with the Executive Member for Communities, to take any further decisions and/or actions required to undertake and conclude the procurement, award and enter into a contract for the provision of safe accommodation (refuge) across Northamptonshire.   Reasons for Recommendations:   ·                To enable the Stronger and Safer Communities and Procurement services to work with colleagues in West Northamptonshire Council, who are leading this procurement, to employ the most effective and compliant route to secure a contract to provide safe accommodation (refuge) across the county, combining resources to develop a service that meets the needs of both authority areas. This collaborative approach will maximise efficiencies and ensure the use of the most effective and compliant procurement route to secure safe accommodation and support services across Northamptonshire.  ·                To ensure North Northamptonshire Council is compliant with the duties afforded to it under the Domestic Abuse Act of 2021.     Alternative Options Considered:   Option 1: not recommended?  Do nothing.    This is considered an unsatisfactory option because of the adverse impact on the victims/survivors of domestic abuse in both North and West Northamptonshire. The delivery of a single contract that is targeted at victims/survivors of domestic abuse is a key component in how we deliver on our statutory duties under the Domestic Abuse Safe Accommodation Act. Therefore, discontinuing the service will create a gap in statutory and non-statutory provision which will be detrimental to adults, children and young people impacted by domestic abuse.    Option 2- not recommended?  Council continues to fund the service under the existing grant arrangement.    The existing commissioning arrangements fail to deliver a whole system model of safe accommodation (refuge) and support service for victims/survivors of domestic abuse that addresses demand and need. It also does not provide the same opportunities as a joint procurement would to realise efficiencies going forward.     Option 3 - recommended?  For the Council to enter into joint procurement arrangements with West Northamptonshire Council.    This will combine both Council’s resources and budgets to develop a whole system approach to safe accommodation services (including refuge) and support which meets the needs of both authority areas whilst maximising efficiencies and impact.