Decision details

The Supporting People (SP) Programme aims to increase the opportunities and improve the life chances of people with vulnerabilities in East Sussex. The SP Programme offers accessible, high quality and affordable housing support services that promote independence, prevent crisis and complement existing and new housing, health, social care and children’s services.

It was decided that this contract should be awarded to Salvation Army Housing Association (SAHA) via a light touch open tender process (Option one) as theirs was the most economically advantageous tender.

Option 2: Extension of existing contract

This is not an option - A waiver is in place that has already increased the value of the contract with the current Provider to the maximum permitted. Extending the contract for a further time period is therefore not possible.

Option 3: Utilise existing Orbis Framework for Accommodation Based Services

This is not an option – There is not an existing Orbis framework for Accommodation Based Services, And ESCC are looking for a single provider to provide the service.

Option 4: Look at what SCC and BHCC are doing with a view to partnership working.

This is currently not an option –
Brighton & Hove County Council (BHCC) has an Approved List of providers in place for Accommodation based Services started Sept 2018 with a 5 year term. Contract can be called off for 3+2 years term which ESCC can run mini comps from, however at the time of awarding the individual lots BHCC were not successful in awarding for a similar service that ESCC currently require.

Surrey County Council has a DPS in place for Young Parents between the age of 16-25 but ESCC require services for Young Mothers only and local placements and this route would not meet our placement strategy and statutory duties (sufficiency duty to house children within county borders).

The current time constraints to ensure the continuation of this service has meant that an opportunity for collaboration with Brighton at this time was not possible, but could be a consideration in the future.