Decision details

To approve an extension of the Carers Break Service contract for a 2 year period commencing on 1 October 2026.

Approval has been given to extend the Carers Break Service contract for a 2 year period commencing on 1 October 2026.

In 2023, North Yorkshire Council commissioned three lead providers across four Lots to deliver a countywide Carer Break Service. The service provides planned, preventative breaks from caring responsibilities, primarily through volunteer-supported 1:1 and group-based activities.

The service enables unpaid carers to have meaningful breaks from caring, supporting wellbeing, sustaining caring relationships, and recognising the contribution carers make to their families and communities.

The service is performing well, delivering strong outcomes for carers and supporting statutory duties under the Care Act 2014. The providers are exceeding delivery targets: A total of 16,991 carer support hours were delivered during the contract year representing 164% of the minimum requirement, with delivery across lots ranging from 97% to 257% (highest in Lot 2).

Evaluation shows positive impact on caring roles with 64% of carers reported the service helps them continue caring for longer and reduces or delays the need for additional or statutory care.

Extending the service by 2 years will allow continuation of the current delivery of the service with no disruption to individuals accessing the support. The contract has scope to use this natural extension. Re-procurement is not required as the services are not underperforming, nor does the specification require a material change.

Failure to extend the service could result in service cessation, leaving carers without support and increasing pressure on statutory services.

Extending the contract with no adjustment of the base budget risks reduced service delivery or quality and does not address demand pressures.