Issue details

CONTRACT EXTENSION TO ALLOW CONTINUATION OF THE STEP UP TO SOCIAL WORK TRAINING PROGRAMME

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.

Decision type: Key

Reason Key: Expenditure/Income over £5m & policies or new income, reserves use, overspend over £300K;

Decision status: For Determination

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Notice of proposed decision first published: 31/05/2019

Report access: Open;

Report Type: Key Decision;

Decision due: 1 Jul 2019 by Cabinet

Lead member: Cabinet Member for Children and Education (expired July 2024)

Lead director: Director Children's Services

Department: Children's Services Department

Contact: Craig Holden Email: Craig.Holden@lbhf.gov.uk Tel: 07850 541 477.

Consultees

Steve Miley, Director of Children’s Services and Bev Sharpe, Assistant Director of Family Services

What is the total value of the decision?: No - BDT

Decisions

Agenda items

Documents

  • CONTRACT EXTENSION TO ALLOW CONTINUATION OF THE STEP UP TO SOCIAL WORK TRAINING PROGRAMME