Decision details

To seek Cabinet Member approval for the extension of the Independent Community Advocacy Service, under Protocol 10 of the Financial Regulations, for a period of twelve months until 31 March 2023.

The Cabinet Member approved the extension of the current contract for the provision of Independent Community Advocacy Service, under Protocol 10 of the Financial Regulations, for a period of twelve months until 31 March 2023.

• Providing Independent Advocacy in Derbyshire is a legal requirement.
• The contract will currently end on 31 March 2022 and all available extensions have been utilised.
• It was not possible to undertake consultation and re-tendering during the Covid pandemic.
• Approving this Business Case will allow vital services to continue without disruption; to give a period of stability to the provider following the impact of the Covid pandemic; and allow time to develop a contract and specification to meet future need.

Do nothing – If we do not extend the contract for a further 12 months the Council will fail to meet its statutory responsibility under the Care Act 2014 to provide Independent Community Advocacy and the health and wellbeing of Derbyshire residents, particularly vulnerable groups, could be put at risk and the reputation of the council could be damaged. The contract extension is proposed on the basis that we will seek to engage on the service provision across 2021/2022 prior to the remodelling of future Advocacy support, as any changes may result in some people no longer receiving the service in the same way.

Do something else – this is not an option as there is insufficient time to procure a new contract provider.