The recommendation was amended and then agreed.

DECISION

1.    To agree in principle to proceed to move to a new model outlined in Option 4 and authorise, following further consultation with the Mayor and Lead Cabinet Member, the initiation of a tender process for a visiting floating support service and subsequent awarding of contract, subject to best value consideration being met by bids received, in respect of the sheltered housing schemes listed in this report (noting that a short extension to some contracts may be required in order to complete the tendering process).

Action by:

DIRECTOR, ADULTS’ SERVICES (D. RADLEY)

(Acting Service Head, Commissioning and Health (K. Sugars)

Councillor Amy Whitelock Gibbs, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Services, introduced the report. She explained how the report proposed a new model of sheltered housing provision moving to a floating support model which would allow more flexibility and was more financially sustainable. She noted the significant growth in the over 60s population and the likely increase in demand for sheltered housing. She also highlighted that continuity of care for service users was being built into the contracts.

The Mayor welcomed the report but expressed concern about the extent to which existing service users understood the levels of service they would be receiving. He considered that further discussion with service users was required. The Mayor agreed the report’s recommendation in principle but asked that further consultation take place including with himself and the Lead Member before the recommendations be actioned.

RESOLVED

1.    To agree in principle to proceed to move to a new model outlined in Option 4 and authorise, following further consultation with the Mayor and Lead Cabinet Member, the initiation of a tender process for a visiting floating support service and subsequent awarding of contract, subject to best value consideration being met by bids received, in respect of the sheltered housing schemes listed in this report (noting that a short extension to some contracts may be required in order to complete the tendering process).