To consider the attached report from the Director of Commissioning

Consideration was given to a report of the Director of Commissioning setting out the context and overview of the Healthwatch and Advocacy services and opportunities and commissioning options with existing concessions both expire on the 31 March 2021.

Alternatives considered

The submitted report set out three alternative approaches for the commissioning of the service.

Resolved

1.    That the advocacy service contract be retendered to align with the North East Sector.

2.    That the Healthwatch contract utilise the two year extension opportunity within the existing contract.

Reason for resolution

To allow for fair market testing of the advocacy service and provide continuity of service provision within the Healthwatch service.