The Executive - Individual Member Decisions meeting on 26 June 2024 focused primarily on the procurement of a new social care system. The council decided to approve a five-year contract for this system, which aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of social care services in Wokingham.

Procurement of Social Care System - 5yr Contract

The main agenda item was the procurement of a new social care system. The council approved a five-year contract for the system, which is expected to modernise the current social care infrastructure. The new system will replace the outdated software currently in use, aiming to improve data management, streamline processes, and enhance service delivery to residents.

Councillors discussed the benefits of the new system, highlighting its potential to provide better support for social care workers and improve outcomes for service users. One councillor noted, The new system will allow us to manage cases more efficiently and ensure that our residents receive the best possible care, while another pointed out the importance of investing in technology to keep up with increasing demands on social care services.

There were also concerns raised about the cost and implementation of the new system. Some councillors questioned whether the investment would deliver the expected benefits and whether there would be sufficient training for staff. However, the majority agreed that the long-term advantages outweighed the initial challenges.

The decision to approve the contract was ultimately made, with the council committing to monitor the system's performance closely and make adjustments as necessary to ensure it meets the needs of both staff and residents.

For more details, you can refer to the public reports pack and the decisions document from the meeting.