Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 11, 2026

Purpose: Agreement to accept the funding from the DFE and to create the business case to develop two Children's homes.

Content: Report Title: DFE Capital Funding for Children's Homes   Presented by: Councillor Oscar Ford (Cabinet Member for Children and Young People)   Cabinet:   1.         Accepted the £1.03m capital grant from the DFE and enter into the grant agreement with DfE. 2.         Committed  £0.515m in capital funding to the total capital requirement of £2.06m to purchase and develop the homes. 3.         Delegated authority to the Strategic Director for Place to select and agree to the purchase of the two homes on behalf of the Council. 4.         Agreed the procurement of a care provider via an open tendering process. 5.         Agreed the waiver of the standard weightings of 70% price and 30% quality for the procurement of the care provider to 40% price and 60% quality (including social value) for the reasons set out below. 6.         Delegated authority to the Lead Member of Children’s Services to make the decision to award the care contract to the successful bidder following the competitive tender process.