Decision details

This report seeks approval for the extension of the existing contract with the University of Hertfordshire to deliver the Step Up to Social Work Programme. Fully funded by central government via a grant from the Department for Education, the programme trains Children’s Services social workers to a Post-Graduate Diploma with the opportunity to obtain credits towards a Master’s degree in Social Work. This means that H&F is better able to attract and retain well-qualified children’s social workers at a time when this is proving difficult nationally. The contract is let by Hammersmith & Fulham Council on behalf of the West London Alliance. The contract commenced on 21 July 2017 and will run for six-years, until August 2023 at a total value of c.£1,100,000 (c.£380,000 per cohort). The first successful two-year draw down of that contract is due to expire on the 25 June 2019. In order to continue delivery of the programme for Cohort 6 (due to start in January 2020), Cabinet approval is sought for a continuation.