Decision details

To approve the extension of the Dementia Support and Advice Service countywide contract for a term of 2 years, commencing on 01/04/2025 ceasing on 31/03/2027. Amendments are permitted under the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules and associated Public Contract Regulations.

Approval has been given for the extension of the Dementia Support and Advice Service countywide contract for a term of 2 years, commencing on 01/04/2025 and ceasing on 31/03/2027.

At contract commencement a longer term contract was deemed appropriate to ensure service delivery aligned with the North Yorkshire Council Dementia Strategy – “Bring Me Sunshine – Living Well with Dementia in North Yorkshire” to achieve improved health and social care outcomes for individuals, providing a person centred, proactive support and advice service to any resident of North Yorkshire regardless of age, who have a formal diagnosis of dementia, or who is suspected to be living with dementia, as well as supporting their carers, family members and loved ones.

The provider’s “model” is well embedded, carrying the ethos of “local for local” supporting through: -
• Signposting to other related services enabling them to better understand their condition, developing self-management skills and accessing support in their local community to promote independence, well-being, and give choice and control.
• Dedicated educational sessions for those living with or suspected to be living with dementia, carers, schools, community groups, providers, and businesses to raise awareness and better understand dementia and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.
• Working as a key strategic partner with North Yorkshire Council and the Integrated Care Boards to deliver the principles and priorities of “Bring Me Sunshine – Living Well with Dementia in North Yorkshire Strategy.

They continue to be committed to working alongside other professionals/approved providers/community-based services, demonstrating an indication of their long-term commitment to this contract, and their willingness to share good practice and peer support ensuing a consistent approach to supporting those living with dementia and their carers.

Continuation of the existing contract gives stability to the market, enabling a specialist service to work in an integrated way across the health and care sector.

New Procurement - Due to the nature and specialism of the service, providers with expertise in this field within the market are limited which could lead to a failed procurement exercise. Whilst the current contract is working so successfully and continues to provide value for money there is no evidence to suggest that a new procurement would be beneficial. Throughout the agreed extension the service will continue to be reviewed and any anticipated changes shall be notified through the appropriate governance arrangements.