To approve a direct award of contract for up to 2 years 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.

That:

A contract be awarded to Connexus to deliver the management of a telecare monitoring service on a spot purchase basis, from 1 April 2020 for up to two years, with a maximum cost of £110,000

1.         Not to continue the service.  This option is not recommended as it would leave vulnerable people without potentially vital support, and would undermine or invalidate the provision of much technology equipment.  This would lead to potential harm to individuals and potential increases in admissions to hospital or long term care.  The council would also find itself in breach of duties under the Care Act 2014.

2.         To undertake a procurement through a competitive tender process to select a provider for up to two years. This option is not recommended as a change of provider would cause disruption during a short period and the current service is regarded as providing good value for money.  The review, design and governance for new models and arrangements is expected to take around 12 to 15 months.  Procurement and mobilisation of new services and contracts will then be required.  Re-procuring for a short period of interim service delivery would involve disproportionate time and process.

3.         To award a contract of a fixed, shorter duration to enable a procurement exercise to be undertaken. This option is not recommended as the wider work around the redesign of a TEL service (Technology Enabled Lifestyles) would not have concluded and as outlined above, re-procuring for a short period of interim service delivery would involve disproportionate time and process.