URL: https://northnorthants.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1668

Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To approve the proposed commissioning approach for Substance Misuse services starting 1.4.26 and delegate authority to undertake procurement and award the contract

Content: RESOLVED   KEY DECISION   That the Executive: (a)      Delegated authority to the Director of Public Health & Wellbeing in consultation with the Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing to commission substance misuse services for North Northamptonshire Council.   (b)      Delegated authority to the Director of Public Health & Wellbeing in consultation with the Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing to undertake a thorough and structured commissioning process, undertaking all necessary steps to establish contracted services that are both robust and effective in addressing substance misuse and related issues.     Reasons for Recommendations: Statutory Duty: North Northamptonshire Council has a statutory responsibility under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 to reduce health inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of its residents. This includes commissioning services for the treatment and prevention of substance misuse. Fulfilling this duty requires the continuation of effective and accessible Substance Misuse services. Prevalence of Substance Misuse: Drug and alcohol misuse remains a significant issue both locally and nationally. The latest data indicates that substance misuse continues to have a detrimental impact on the health, wellbeing, and safety of individuals, families, and communities within North Northamptonshire. Commissioning these services will directly address these challenges and contribute to reducing substance-related harm.   Improving Public Health Outcomes: The commissioning of Substance Misuse services will support the Council’s commitment to improving public health outcomes and reducing the burden on local healthcare services, including accident and emergency departments and mental health services.   Effective Service Delivery: By commissioning services well ahead of 1st April 2026 start date, the Council can ensure that the new contracts will be in place in a timely manner, avoiding any service disruption and ensuring continuity of care for vulnerable individuals.     Alternative Options Considered: Do Nothing: Continuing without re-commissioning the service was considered, but this option would result in a service gap from April 2026, which could adversely affect service users, and the council would be in breach of its statutory responsibilities.   Continue Shared Services with West Northamptonshire Council: This option was considered but decided against. The process of disaggregating services was agreed at Shared Services Joint Committee on 23rd October 2024   In-House Provision: The possibility of bringing the services in-house was reviewed, but external commissioning was deemed more cost-effective and allowed access to specialist providers.  

Date of Decision: December 19, 2024