To approve the direct award of contract for one year to the current provider to deliver the management of a telecare monitoring service (Careline).  There are no further options for extension within the current contract and therefore a direct award is the most effective and appropriate way to ensure continuation of this service.

The call monitoring service supports the provision of technology equipment to many hundreds of people living in the community, providing a helpline function. The provision of Technology Enabled Care (TECS) equipment is managed separately through another contract. Reviews and redesign of community equipment and TECS pathways and services are commencing and will consider options for future delivery. The current contract expires on the 31 March 2019 and extending the service will allow consideration of a wider range of options and potential alignment with provision of equipment. The community equipment contract is expected to conclude in March 2020