Decision details

To proceed and implement the DPS for Short Breaks from 01/04/2021 for 12 months.

Through consultation children and young people were clear that they wanted a broader, more inclusive offer of short breaks. In addition, desk-based research suggests there are more flexible routes to market for this type of provision namely, a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS). In order to respond to the request from children and young people for a broader service offer we have developed a Short Breaks DPS.

Alongside the legal and contractual development work which has been completed to establish a DPS we have also delivered an extensive programme of engagement work with small providers and/or providers delivering in neighbouring authorities.

It is the intention that the DPS will be accessible by those children and young people wishing to receive a personal budget and this is a direction of travel BMBC is pursuing to support a more inclusive offer to children and their families. The procurement exercise was successfully concluded in December. It was noted that there had been much better interest than in previous tenders and 6 providers were approved, 3 new and 3 previously known

The business justification was made and accepted shown in copy of the minute accompanying this ODR.