Julie Webster, Director of Public Health introduced the report which sought the Committee’s agreement to progress the proposed commissioning intentions for Community Infection Prevention and Control Services.

Members were reminded how the Covid-19 pandemic and response had highlighted the vital importance of infection prevention and control and the specialist support required to ensure that high standards of infection prevention and control could be implemented and maintained. The current contract was delivered by Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust and was due to end on 31 March 2022, therefore authority was sought to commence the re-commissioning of the service. The details of the service were outlined to the Committee, which included providing a proactive service to ensure there were the tools and information available to maintain high standards in all community settings.

The significant work that had to be undertaken in nursing homes to ensure high levels of infection prevention and control was acknowledged and it was proposed that an overview of that work would be useful for members in the future.

Resolved – That

1)  the Director of Public Health be authorised to re-commission the Wirral Community Infection Prevention and Control Service totalling up to £2,450,000 (£350,000 per annum) for an initial five-year contract (1 April 2022 – 31 March 2027) with the option of two one-year extensions.

2)  delegated authority be given to the Director of Public Health to award the tender to the successful bidder following the tender process.