Issue - meetings

A report requesting approval to commence a procurement process for the provision of an Adult Drug and Alcohol Service and Children and Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service.

Cabinet Portfolio Holder – Councillor Margaret Bell

Councillor Margaret Bell, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health, introduced the report relating to the provision of an Adult Drug and Alcohol Service and Children and Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service.  The current contracts began on 1 May 2018 and were due to expire on April 30 2025.

Councillors were signposted to section 1.7 of the report which outlined the overarching principles for the re-commissioning, including ensuring services were accessible geographically and ensuring quality of care.  Harm reduction services and impact on families was also a consideration allowing better access to specialist treatment.  A market engagement questionnaire had been sent out in April 2024 for interested providers to respond and share their views.  The aim was to go live with the tender exercise in September 2024 with a view to new contracts beginning in May 2025.

Councillor Crump addressed the meeting and reminded Members of the importance of accessing specialist treatment in a timely manner.  He felt that the opportunity for individuals to access specialist services promptly had the potential to impact on community cohesion and community safety.  He fully supported the recommendations and thanked the Portfolio Holder and officers for bringing the report forwards.

Councillor Marian Humphreys added her support, describing her experiences of dealing with individuals needing long term support.

Councillor Bell outlined the recommendations as laid out, reiterating the importance of ongoing recovery and sustained support.

Resolved

That Cabinet

1)    Approves the commencement of a procurement process for the provision of an Adult Drug and Alcohol Service and Children and Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service; and

2)    Authorises the Executive Director for Social Care and Health, to enter into all contracts and agreements required to implement this decision on terms and conditions acceptable to the Executive Director for Resources.