Decision details

That the Deputy Leader:

1. Agrees Appendix 1 is not for publication on the basis that it contains information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information) as set out in paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended).

2. Awards the contract for the provision of Local Healthwatch services to the Preferred Bidder for an initial term of four years commencing 1^st September 2025 for the annual cost of £110,000 with two options to extend for further periods each of three years.

1.     Following a robust procurement and assessment process it is proposed the contract will be awarded to the provider who submitted the most economically advantageous tender (MEAT).

2.     By awarding a four-year contract to the Preferred Bidder this will ensure the council adheres to its statutory duties to provide a local Healthwatch and the views of residents are fed into improving local health and care services.

1.     Option 1: Award the contract on the basis of the conducted procurement

This option is recommended as it fulfils H&F’s legal and statutory requirements to provide a local Healthwatch. A robust, transparent and lawful procurement has been conducted resulting in the recommendation that the contract be awarded to the Preferred Bidder. This option is recommended.

2.     Option 2: Do not award the contract

The current contract expires on 31 August 2025. If the contract is not awarded there will be no Local Healthwatch Services and the council will be in breach of its statutory duty. This option is not recommended.