To approve the publication of the Adult Social Care Commissioning Plan 2026-2029 and the progression of the commissioning projects outlined within the Plan and bring forward further reports where individual procurement, commissioning or contract award decisions are required in accordance with the Council's Constitution and procurement requirements.

The Adult Social Care Commissioning Plan 2026-2029 provides a strategic framework for commissioning activity following the transfer of Adult Social Care contracts to the Council as part of the ending of the Section 75 agreement. The Plan supports the Council's ambition to create thriving communities where people can prosper and ensures that commissioned services remain sustainable, affordable and aligned to the needs of local residents.

The Plan also supports the Council's statutory duties under the Care Act 2014, including market shaping and market management responsibilities, whilst setting out a programme of commissioning activity to improve outcomes for people who require care and support and their carers.

Not approving the Adult Social Care Commissioning Plan 2026-2029 would hinder the Council's ability to meet its statutory Adult Social Care commissioning duties effectively.

This decision will come into effect immediately. 

Adult Social Care provides care and support to adults with a wide range of needs, including older people, autistic people, people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health conditions, sensory impairments, dementia and other long-term conditions.  The current spend on commissioned Adult Social Care services is approximately £115 million net per year.

The ending of the Section 75 agreement presents an opportunity for the Council to establish a strategic Adult Social Care commissioning function and review existing services.  The Commissioning Plan sets out a programme of work between 2026 and 2029, including projects relating to information and advocacy services, carers support, replacement care, dementia services, residential care, supported living, day services, technology enabled care, homecare and domestic abuse services.

The Plan is underpinned by a series of commissioning principles focused on person-centred care, prevention, independence, market sustainability, financial affordability, evidence-based decision making and engagement with people with lived experience.  These principles align with the priorities of the Adult Social Care Strategy.

None.