Contact: Pam Robinson, Deputy Director Children and Families. (01962 847991) [email protected]

1 Summary

1.1 This report sets out an analysis of the use of the Emergency Out of Hours Legal Service since it was established in August 2003. It makes the case that the service is not cost effective and recommends termination of the service.

1.2 The following decisions are sought:

i) That the current Out of Hours Legal Service be terminated with effect from 10 April 2007, with senior managers available for professional support.

ii) That further research be carried out to establish the feasibility of procuring a more cost effective option.

iii) That a report be made to the Executive Member for Children's Services in one year on the impact of the termination of the in house service and on the results of any alternative service procured.

2 Reason

2.1 An analysis of the costs and use of the service has revealed minimal appropriate use, to the point where it is difficult to justify the costs.

3 Other Options considered and rejected:

3.1 Purchase from neighbouring authorities was not possible as they do not provide this service.

3.2 Consideration of cost effective procurement of the service from elsewhere will be kept under continual review.

4 Conflicts of Interest declared by the decision maker or other Executive Member consulted

4.1 None, unless declared

5 Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee -

5.1 None unless granted

Approved by: Date:

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Councillor Felicity Hindson MBE

Executive Lead Member for Children's Services