Decision details

It is agreed that the Cabinet Member delegates authority to the Director of Adult Social Care, to commence a procurement exercise for the provision of Healthwatch for 5 years, with the existing annual contract value of £180,250.

Healthwatch is a statutory service, and the current provision is due to expire. A new contract is therefore required to meet our statutory obligations.

Option 1 – Do Nothing

This is not a viable option for a statutory service. The Council has an obligation to meet its statutory duty and provide a Healthwatch service.

Option 2 – Reduce the level of funding

Given the lobbying by Healthwatch England and the evidence stating the impact on delivery with low levels of investment, this does not align with our priorities. This option is not recommended at a time when Sandwell are working to improve the way it ‘hears’ people’s views.

Option 3 – Increase the funding

Due to budget pressures facing adult social care and the wider Council do not support additional funding.

Option 4 – Maintain the current budget of £180,250 annually.

The current budget is in line with neighbouring authorities and meets the requirements of funding above £100k. Additional investment is recognised by Healthwatch England and currently Sandwell meet the funding criteria.

The provider may be able to income generate by undertaking additional pieces of commissioned work via health partners or wider council teams. It is recognised that the level has remained the same for some years however, it is line with the acceptable thresholds for Healthwatch England.

Option 4 is the recommended option.