Decision details

This paper will seek approval from Cabinet to proceed with the recommissioning of General and Debt Advice services in Medway.

Relevant Overview and Scrutiny Committee: All

36/2010 The Cabinet agreed to proceed with the commissioning of advice services in Medway on the basis of option 4 in the report.

Commissioning advice services is important in supporting Medway citizens that may have been adversely affected by the economic downturn. It enables the Council to be confident about the need to reshape the market in terms of generalist advice. Supporting citizens through the provision of these services will in turn support the local economy, and through prevention, reduce the likelihood of demand for other more costly services. The delivery of these services using volunteers in addition to paid staff will ensure that those people who find themselves unemployed have an opportunity to maintain and develop their employability skills.This option will ensure service continuity for general advice services across Medway whilst the market is being developed and will enable officers to gain a greater understanding of the outcomes and impacts of implementing the CLAC/CLAN model for future commissioning purposes. A competitive process for specialist advice will enable, smaller organisations with specific expertise to enter the market and to develop during the life of their contract. This will also enable more targeted support and advice with regards to debt and domestic violence.Option 4 will ensure that best value is achieved for the Council and taxpayers. It will also ensure that Medway citizens have excellent, expert advice that will support them in managing challenging areas of their lives.