Decision details

To approve a variation and extension to the contract for Assistive Technology

Approval has been given to a variation and extension to the Assistive Technology contract until March 2024

The contract was awarded in 2018 and has been highly successful in meeting the aspiration of rolling out a wide range of assistive technology (AT) equipment based on assessed need.
The extension period from March 2023 to March 2024 will be used to finalise the specification for a new service to take effect from March 2024 and complete a fully compliant, open procurement. It is intended that this service will build on the existing good work whilst improving staffing levels within the service, creating stronger links with CYPS and Health colleagues and further pushing the envelope of how AT can be used in service delivery.
The extension period will retain the same budget as the existing contract the service which has typically underspent in previous years creating opportunities to fund trial activity on new and emerging products.

Allowing the contract to lapse was considered, but not a viable option due to the need to retain an effective service to meet assessed eligible needs.