Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: November 5, 2024

Purpose:

Content: 14.1 The Head of Service for Resourcing and Business Planning introduced the report to the Committee which sought a formal decision to allow, for the lifespan of this current funding requirement, the passporting of the Element 3 Top-Up to providers under contract. 14.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Education, Children and Families Policy Committee:- Agree to commission contracts required via individuals Education and Health Care Plans, as outlined in the report. Note that the High Needs Block Element 3 Top Up Contracts would cover the whole lifespan of the current funding requirement. 14.3 Reasons for Decision 14.3.1 It is legal requirement to passport High Needs Block Element 3 Top-Up funding onto a Further Education College or Independent Specialist Provider which is listed on the learner’s Education Health & Care Plan and where the learner’s domicile is in within the city based on individually assessed need. This legal requirement comes under the Children & Families Act 2014. The Council will award the funding directly to the suppliers as families choose the institution leaving, no role for the Council in the selection process. 14.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected 14.4.1 Alternative Option 1:   Award a Grant Agreement to Further Education or Independent Specialist Provider instead of a Contract For Services to cover the HNB Element 3 Top-Up: This alternative has been rejected as the learner’s education provider is named on their EHCP meaning that it is a legal requirement under the Children & Families Act 2014 that the Council puts in place a Contract for Services rather than a Grant Agreement. 14.4.2 Alternative Option 2:   Create a Framework or undertake Tendering: These contracts cannot be awarded under a framework or through a tender as the supplier has already been prescribed and listed on the learners ECHP meaning it cannot go out to competition.