Decision

The Director of Adult Social Care has decided to award a £1.5 million contract for the Sandwell Carers Support Service to Forward Carers CIC.

Analysis

outcome: Recommendations were approved to award the contract to Forward Carers CIC.

summary: The decision involves awarding a contract for the Sandwell Carers Support Service for a period of 5 years with a value of £1.5 million.

topline: The Director of Adult Social Care has decided to award a £1.5 million contract for the Sandwell Carers Support Service to Forward Carers CIC.

reason_contentious: This issue may be contentious as it involves a significant financial investment and may impact the quality of care provided to carers in the area.

affected_stakeholders: ["Carers in Sandwell", "Forward Carers CIC", "Local residents"]

contentiousness_score: 6

political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.

URL: https://sandwell.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1099

Decision Maker: Director Adult Social Care

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Following a full commissioning and open procurement exercise, the Forward Carers CIC bid was the highest scoring Most Economic Advantageous Tender. A moderation panel reviewed 5 bids and Forward Carers ranked number 1 with an overall score of 88.6% /100. This service will improve the lives of carers in Sandwell and support the Council to fulfil its duty under the Care Act 2014. The contract value is £1.5m and will be awarded for 5 years. This approach will support Sandwell to fulfil its statutory duty and enable people to access quality information, advice, and guidance instead of a waiting list as the first option. The proposed service will improve the customer journey, ensuring practical advice and support is made available in a timelier manner. This revised approach will vastly improve the offer for carers. Carers will be directed to the support required that will enable carers to continue in their caring role and live a good life. Extensive engagement carried out. This included a survey of 157 carers, and people who support them, from March – May 15, 2024, and 7 focus groups. Over 200 people took part in the engagement. A small group of carers will continue to co-produce the service functions and specification with commissioners.

Content: The further to Cabinet decision 133/24 - Authority to Procure a Sandwell Carers Support Service - Cabinet Meeting Wednesday, 4 December 2024 - approval be given to award the Sandwell Carers Service Contract Forward Carers CIC for a period of 5 years with a contract value of £1.5 million.

Date of Decision: July 8, 2025