Issue - meetings

Background:

The report sought permission to award an open framework following the procurement exercise for Residential and Nursing Care for Older People (Aged 65+).

A Diversity Impact Assessment had been undertaken and was attached at Appendix 1 to the report.

An Exempt Appendix to the report provided the financial analysis of the procurement exercise.

Reasons:

The provision of Residential and Nursing Care for Older People (Aged 65+) contract will deliver a service that aims to:

•         Reduce reliance on spot purchasing and individual contracts for specialist care for older people (Aged 65+) by working collaboratively with colleagues, stakeholders, and providers to develop new bandings that reflect an individual’s mental and physical level of need, rather than relying solely on a dementia diagnosis.

•         Standardise services across Medway Council and Kent County Council, ensuring a shared understanding of services commissioned through aligned specifications covering quality, KPI’s, and performance requirements.

•         Maintain an awareness and of the proposed Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and ensure the contract design remains flexible and responsive to emerging strategic changes.

•         Provide greater consistency for providers operating across the Medway-Kent border, supporting improved joint market management and reducing unnecessary variation between authorities.

•         Supporting national and local priorities for social care and health integration, contributing to a more coordinated, outcome focused system for older people.