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
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