The Head of Integrated Services presented the report of the Director of Care and Health which recommended and described a more ambitious and longer-term service model that would be better able to achieve the strategic aims of the Council, value for money targets and a more comprehensive offer for potential and current Direct Payment recipients to support the sustainability of the arrangements.

A procurement exercise was undertaken for a PA register which received a low response rate, possibly due to being a short-term one year pilot. It was proposed to undertake a further procurement exercise for a merged Direct Payment (DP) offer for a three year plus one contract to include a payroll and managed accounts service and information and guidance to support DP recipients.

Members asked whether any other options to DP being made by pre-payment cards had been considered as pre-payment cards may take choice away from people. No other options had been considered but it was something that could be considered as the specification was improved. If cash was used people were required to provide accounts and there was not any evidence that DP reduces what the money can be spent on so there should be no problem in terms of choice and control.

Members asked about age limits and were informed that there was no age limit to those in receipt of DP.

Members were informed that people would be given training and support with the financial side of DP if they wished or alternatively the financial side could be completed for them.

Resolved that:

(1) The proposed service model and outcomes as described in section 3.1 to 3.6 of this report be endorsed

(2) (a) The Director of Care and Health be authorised to commence a procurement process for the appointment of an accredited provider for a merged offer to include a payroll and managed accounts service, information advice and guidance for current and potential Direct Payment recipients and a Personal Assistant register for a three-year contract with an option for a further one-year extension; and

(b) Delegated authority be given to the Director of Care and Health to award the contract to the successful bidder following the tender process.

(3) The Director of Care and Health be requested to bring a further report to a future Committee to inform Members of the outcomes achieved once the new service model is established.