The paper requires decision on the key reconfiguration proposals for the hostel sector during 2016 - 2019, which will shape the re-tendering of hostels during 2016/2017, when the current hostel contracts come to an end. These contracts begin to expire from the winter 2016, so this decision is needed.

DECISION

1.    To approve that officers commence discussion and engagement with service users, providers, stakeholders and landlords as to the future model of the hostel sector to inform the commissioning plan for 2016-2019 including:

·         Reducing the level of service provision for women and those in need of abstinent hostel provision, in line with local needs. Currently it is estimated that the reduction in units for women could be from 118 units to 81, whilst for abstinent beds, the reduction could be from 51 units to 35.

·         Focus on providing a range of hostel services for those with high and complex needs.

·         Reducing the overall size of the hostel sector by approximately 120 beds. This is in recognition that:

o    a new hostel move-on service has been developed from Feb 2016, which it is anticipated will provide an additional 60 move on opportunities per annum

o    there are estimated to be at least 35 people who are living in hostels who no longer require support, who can be sensitively moved on (with support if required)  

o    there is lower demand from women and those needing abstinent provision as outlined above

o    the Council needs to achieve savings across the portfolio of commissioned services in adult social care

2.    To authorise officers in Adult Services Commissioning to liaise with colleagues in legal and procurement to:

·         Consider the potential to exclude services for a defined period, if significant capital is being invested to enable effective management of the programme of works and ensure continuity of both staff and provision throughout the period and minimise any adverse effects on provision and clients going forward.

·         Explore such arrangements with hostel landlords to invest in the sector and make improvements to the living environment. 

3.    To receive a further Cabinet report detailing the proposed hostel contracts to be competitively tendered and details of any exemptions from this. 

Action by:

DIRECTOR, ADULTS’ SERVICES (D. RADLEY)

(Interim Service Head, Commissioning and Health, Adult Services (K. Sugars)