Decision details
Authority to extend contract for the provision of Advocacy Services (Care Act, Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA), Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA), and Relevant Person's Paid Representative (RPPR)) (Non-Key Officer Recordable Decision)
Decision Maker: Corporate Director of Service Reform and Strategy
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Is Key decision?: No
Is subject to call in?: No
Purpose:
To request authority to extend a contract in respect of Advocacy Services – Care Act Advocacy, Mental Health Act Advocacy (IMHA), Independent Mental Capacity Act Advocacy (IMCA) and Relevant Person’s Paid Representative (RPPR) with POhWER.
Decision:
That the Corporate Director of Service Reform and Strategy:
i) Approves the extension of the contract for the provision of Advocacy Services – Care Act Advocacy, Mental Health Act Advocacy (IMHA), Independent Mental Capacity Act Advocacy (IMCA) and Relevant Person’s Paid Representative (RPPR) with POhWER for a period of 12 months.
Reasons for the decision:
The Council entered into a contract for the provision of Advocacy Services with POhWER on 2 August 2023. The contract contains provision permitting extension of the contract by 12 months. Officers consider extending the contract by 12 months will achieve best value for the Council and is reasonable in all the circumstances.
Alternative options considered:
Alternative approaches, including re-procurement and delivering the service in-house have been explored, however, these options are currently neither cost-effective or operationally viable. The Council does not possess the necessary expertise to deliver the service internally. Extending the existing contract is therefore the preferred option as it ensures continuity of service for both residents and the Council.
Interests and Nature of Interests Declared:
None.
Wards Affected: (All Wards);
Cabinet/Committee Decision or Scheme of Delegation: Officer scheme of delegation - non-key officer key decision.
Parties Consulted: Consultation with ward members and stakeholders was sought prior to advert and award of the contract.
Contact: Edwin Mensah, Head of Commissioning, Contracting and Market Management Email: edwin.mensah@brent.gov.uk Tel: 020 8937 4132.
Publication date: 29/07/2025
Date of decision: 29/07/2025