Proposed Decision
To approve the procurement and set up arrangements for a Temporary Place of Rest should it be needed as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Background
KCC has a statutory responsibility under the Civil Contingency Act 2004 to take the lead on behalf of the Kent Resilience Forum in responding to humanitarian impacts that result from an emergency. As part of the continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and in light of the new Omicron Variant, latest modelling, the rising absenteeism of frontline hospital staff and other routine winter pressures, the multi-agency partners of the Kent Resilience Forum (KRF) of which KCC has a lead role, have decided to initiate preparations to set up the Aylesford Temporary Place of Rest in case it is needed
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Expenditure or savings of more than £1m;
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Notice of proposed decision first published: 06/01/2022
Reason for urgency:
Because setting up the site takes time, a proactive move is being taken to plan ahead, to allow for getting the necessary statutory and logistical plans in place at minimum cost, to ensure that the county remains prepared for any potential winter pressures on death management and services across the county in the new year.
Decision due: 6 Jan 2022 by Leader of the Council
Reason: Urgent Decision
Contact: Theresa Warford, Staff Officer to Corporate Director – Growth, Environment and Transport Email: theresa.warford@kent.gov.uk Tel: 417192.
Consultees
No Cabinet Committee consultation due to urgency procedures.
Relevant non-executive Members contacted in accordance with urgency procedures.
Financial implications: The initial estimate is that funding up to £1m will be required to set up and operate a Temporary Place of Rest. The Emergency Covid reserve will be used to fund the costs incurred.
Legal implications: Activity required to meet statutory obligations to secure appropriate and sufficient body storage capacity.
Equalities implications: N/A