Issue - meetings

1. Richard Ellis introduced the report and noted that the extension was required while extensive work on recommissioning was ongoing.

2. In response to comments and questions, it was said. 

a.    A Member asked how the quality of care was being monitored and what oversights were in place to ensure quality for residents. Mr Mitchell said that there was a team of commissioners that would go out to providers and have meetings with the CQC to gain intelligence. It was noted that there was a robust process of sanctions in place and support available to help providers improve. The Member requested that performance data be included in such reports going forward. 

b.    A Member asked for reassurance that the contract extension was in line with the budget proposal to negotiate a 5% reduction in contract value costs. Richard Ellis said that although there were no savings against any of the contract extensions being presented today. They were consistent with the budget proposals as work was ongoing to reduce the number of people receiving residential care, which had increased during and since the COVID-19 pandemic and switch to more support at home and in the community. Mr Watkins noted that the change from procurement to strategic commissioning would generate savings going forward. The Cabinet Member would look into including a 3-year budget line when the contract returns to the committee. 

c.     A Member asked if providers were penalised with financial penalties for poor performance. Richard Ellis said that financial penalties were not used but relationships with providers could be terminated for not delivering the quality of care expected based on CQC inspections or findings of the Council teams. It was noted that if an individual experienced issues they would be supported and switched to the best provider for their needs.  

d.    Following requests from Members it was confirmed that sanction information could be included in reports going forward and that this information was publicly available. 

3.    RESOLVED that the Adult Social Care Cabinet Committee endorsed the Learning Disability, Physical Disability and Mental Health Residential Care Home Services Contract Extension

4.    In accordance with paragraph 16.31 of the Constitution, Mr Brady, Ms Meade, Mr Campkin, Ms Hawkins and Mr Streatfeild wished for it to be recorded in the minutes that they voted to abstain on the endorsement of the proposed decision.