Decision details

To consider the proposed model for the longer term arrangements for the Families First Programme and the commissioning intentions of the Families First Programme for 2017/18

RESOLVED: that

1.  the proposed phased approach to the recommissioning of the next Families First Programme grant funded services as set out in the body of the report be agreed

2.  Subject to recommendation 3, authority be delegated to the Director of Social Services in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children and Families and the Cabinet Member for Finance, Modernisation and Performance, and Section 151 and the Director of Governance and Legal Services  for all aspects of commissioning (including the award of contracts) and any associated arrangements which may be required  in relation to the next Programme, namely

a)  Arrangements for the pilot of the Early Help Service and any subsequent longer-term arrangements which may be put into place following the pilot;

b)  Service Level Agreements with the relevant Council service areas (jncluding the Education department) for delivery of the main Parenting and Youth Support Services;

c)   Arrangements (in a form to be determined and subject to advice)  with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board for services which require specialist health delivery;

d)  Arrangements to extend any current contracts  within scope of the Families First Programme to enable new arrangements to be put in  place and subject to the existing contracts containing provisions to extend the same;

e)  To explore and develop joint working arrangements  with the Vale of Glamorgan Council and to enter into any subsequent joint working  arrangements agreed (save for any joint working arrangements which include a delegation of a Council function to the Vale of Glamorgan and/or the delegation of a Vale of Glamorgan Council function to the Council whereupon the matter will be reported back to Cabinet);

f)    Commissioning arrangements for other complementary services in relation to the Families First Programme including the award of contracts.  

3.  subject to all contracts and arrangements being made to include appropriate provisions in relation to the availability of grant funding, the term of such agreements and arrangements will be not go beyond 31st March 2022.

Consultation has taken place with existing providers and those with an interest in the programme, young people and families