(KEY DECISION)

Report No. 17/2018 from the Director for People was received.

The Portfolio Holder, Mr Wilby, introduced the report, the purpose of which was to seek approval from Cabinet for the procurement of educational psychology services for a period of five years (a contract of three years with the option of plus on, plus one) from 1^st September 2018.

During discussion the points were raised:

i.      There would be the option to extend the contract after 3 years subject to performance and outcomes;

ii.     The delivery of this service was a statutory duty, responsibility for which was with the Local Authority and Schools;

iii.    Work had been done to improve the service and this was starting to reflect in perception and outcomes.  Overall satisfaction with the service appeared positive, this was evidenced by the results of the survey; and

iv.   The award criteria reflected a balance between value for money and costs in recognition of the importance of effective delivery and outcomes for this service.

DECISION

1)    Cabinet APPROVED the procurement model and award criteria to secure a provider for Educational Psychology Services for a period of 5 years (3 years with the option of plus one plus one) from 1^st September 2018.

2)    Cabinet AUTHORISED the Director for People, in consultation with the Cabinet Members with the Portfolio for Life Long Learning and the Portfolio for Safeguarding Children and Young People, to award the contract resulting from the procurement in line with the Award Criteria.

Reasons for the decision

1.    The Local Authority required Educational Psychology services to support its statutory duties.  The contract with the existing provider was due to expire 31^st August 2018 and a tender exercise was required to secure Educational Psychology provision from 1^st September 2018.

2.    Alternative options had been considered and were not deemed as suitable for providing a cost effective and resilient Educational Psychology service.

3.    In order for the procurement process to commence the award criteria needed to be approved by Cabinet.  The criteria had been carefully considered to ensure that providers successful in the process were capable of meeting the requirements and could deliver appropriate quality services in Rutland that reflected the needs of its children and young people.

4.    It was recommended that once the award criteria were approved, approval of the award of contracts was delegated to the Director for People in consultation with the Portfolio Holder/s.  Decisions would only be taken in line with Cabinet approved criteria.