The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director (Adults and Communities) presenting the options for the re-procurement of Voluntary Sector Infrastructure Contract which had been referred back by the People Scrutiny Committee held on Wednesday, 11^th October 2022 (Minute 351 refers).

On consideration of the report, the Cabinet noted the concerns of the People Scrutiny Committee concerning the possible impact of the proposed financial envelope for the Southend Infrastructure Service on the local community and voluntary sector.

Resolved:

1. That the outcomes set out in the submitted report, the financial envelope of £100,000 and the recommended procurement option to go to tender for a Southend infrastructure service, be approved.

Reasons for decision:

To go out to the market for a new voluntary sector infrastructure service for Southend so that it may attract different providers with new ideas and the City can benefit from economies of scale. It will also allow Southend City Council to clearly specify what they want from the new contract.

Other options:

1. To cease funding an infrastructure contract.

2. To go out to tender with Essex County Council as part of a larger contract.

Note: This is an Executive Function

This matter was referred back and is not eligible for call-in

Cabinet Member: Cllr Mitchell