Hampshire County Council

Executive Member - Adult Social Care Item 5

29 September 2006

Authority to invite Tenders for Harm Reduction and Outreach Services

Report by the Director of Adult Services

(Summary of CONFIDENTIAL decision)

1

Summary

1.1

The following decisions are sought:

1. That approval be given to the Hampshire Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) to invite tenders for the provision of two Harm Reduction and Outreach Services for the East and West of Hampshire.

2. That approval be given to extend existing contracts for a period up to a year, in accordance with the current contracts, up to 31 March 2008.

1.2

This report is not for publication as it contains except information within Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, being information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). Further it is considered that, in all the circumstances, the public interest in maintaining this exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing this information. While there may be a public interest in disclosing this information, namely financial transparency in the County Council's affairs, it is felt that on balance this is outweighed by other factors in favour of maintaining the exception, namely the contract is subject to confidential third party financial and other negotiations and to reveal details of those negotiations would adversely affect the County Council's negotiating position relating to this contract.

2

Reason(s)

2.1

Harm Reduction and Outreach services are essential in helping to prevent the spread of blood borne viruses, especially Hepatitis C and HIV and also provide the first step towards actively engaging with clients and encouraging them into the treatment system. As a core function, the service offers needle exchange and disposal, minimising the creation of hazardous waste in the community.

3

Other options considered and rejected

3.1

Do Nothing

This was rejected on the basis that current contracts for Mobile Needle Exchange services expire at the end of March 2007 and this would leave service users vulnerable if no replacement arrangements were made. Additionally, the tender is included in the DAAT Treatment Plan 2006/07 which has been agreed by the National Treatment Agency.

4

Conflicts of interest declared by the decision-maker or other Executive Member consulted

4.1

None

5

Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

5.1

None

6

Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1

Not applicable

Approved by:

..........................

Date of decision:

.........................

Councillor Patricia Banks