To seek approval for the procurement of an IT system to support the management of housing solutions, choice based letting arrangements, registrations and homelessness in Herefordshire; aligning with our legal statutory duties.

That:

a) Total expenditure of up to £285,000.00 from Community Wellbeing revenue budget is approved for the procurement and implementation of a new software system to support housing solutions and choice based letting;

b) All operational decisions required to implement recommendation are delegated to the Corporate Director Community Wellbeing in consultation with the Cabinet Member Adults, Health and Wellbeing.

Continue with current software system: The contract with the current provider has been extended beyond 50% of the original contract value. There is therefore no option to extend the current contract beyond November 2024. With a number of challenges identified with the legacy system, the procurement of a new system also provides an opportunity to implement a system which is fit for purpose, more efficient and would offer best value for money. Not procuring a new system presents a risk that statutory duties could not be undertaken by Herefordshire Council.