The Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee met on Monday 28 October 2019, authorising the direct award of a contract for the Mosaic system and endorsing the Richmond upon Thames Suicide Prevention Strategy. The committee also noted the Q2 budget monitoring and acknowledged the Richmond Housing Partnership's performance report.

MOSAIC PROCUREMENT

The committee authorised the direct award of a contract to Servelec Ltd for the support, maintenance, and hosting of the Mosaic system for a period of five years, with an option for a further two-year extension. This decision was made to streamline systems across Richmond and Wandsworth Councils, with officers confident that Mosaic was the appropriate choice. Concerns regarding data protection were addressed, with assurances that the arrangement would be an extension of existing shared staffing services between the two councils.

RICHMOND SUICIDE PREVENTION STRATEGY 2019 - 2022

The committee endorsed the Richmond upon Thames Suicide Prevention Strategy 2019-2022, approving its key objectives and actions, and supporting the inclusion of an aim towards a zero-suicide rate. The strategy aims to reduce suicide and self-harm across the community, with a focus on creating a caring and compassionate society. Members expressed concern about access to services like Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), but were informed of recent investments and a new single point of access. The council is also looking to roll out mental health first aid training across the borough to help ensure prompt signposting to appropriate support.

Q2 BUDGET MONITORING

The committee noted that the projected overspend on services for the committee was £90,000, and also noted the position on the Capital programme. Officers confirmed that savings had been made through efficiencies when re-tendering contracts for drug and alcohol services, which are included within the Adult Public Health Services budget. Regarding the cancelled Careline contracts, the Careline team is exploring alternative options, including outreach through online platforms and advertising in GP surgeries and health centres. Complementary technologies, such as monitors, are also being trialled for service users.

RICHMOND HOUSING PARTNERSHIP (RHP) PERFORMANCE REPORT

The committee noted the contents of the Richmond Housing Partnership (RHP) Performance Report and a presentation on Fire Safety measures. They acknowledged the points raised by a public speaker, Mr Keith Shaw, regarding anti-social behaviour (ASB) at the Chapter Way site in Hampton North, and it was agreed that the Executive Director of Customer Services (RHP) would respond to him outside of the meeting. RHP reported an increase in higher-level ASB cases and is working with the local authority and police to address these issues. The committee also discussed improvements to RHP's customer contact centre, including increased staffing and an expanded induction programme.

SAFEGUARDING ADULTS BOARD ANNUAL REPORT

The committee noted the contents of the Richmond and Wandsworth Safeguarding Adults Board (RWSAB) Annual Report and its intended governance. Members suggested that the RWSAB could benefit from including a glossary of terms to clarify language used in the report. Assurances were given that the Executive board is supported by an independent Chair and that safeguarding enquiries are person-centred and conducted in conjunction with the individual. The committee was informed that decisions on progressing safeguarding cases are typically made within a few days, with actions usually completed within a month to six weeks, though complex cases may take longer.

FORWARD PLAN

The committee noted the forward plan for committee business. It was indicated that there would likely be an update on the procurement of services for people with substance use disorders in the new year. The committee also noted that an update on the Joint Dementia Strategy would be presented in due course, and that a lead officer had been appointed to focus on employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The committee agreed that they would like to receive an update on Transitions.