Harrow Council's Cabinet has approved the commencement of a competitive procurement process to commission a new provider for on-site care and wellbeing services at Ewart House, an extra care housing scheme for adults aged 55 and over. The decision, detailed in the Public reports pack for the Cabinet meeting, aims to ensure continued high-quality support for residents.
The new contract, expected to be worth between £7 million and £8 million over seven years, is set to begin on April 1, 2027. It will have an initial five-year term with an optional two-year extension.
Councillor Norman Stevenson, Portfolio Holder for Adults and Public Health, highlighted the crucial role of these services in promoting independence and offering an alternative to residential care. The current contract with Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing is due to expire on March 31, 2027. Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing has requested an early termination of this contract due to their withdrawal from the regulated care market.
To enhance competition and support a wider range of providers, the procurement process will divide the service into two lots: Domestic Abuse Support Service and Safe Accommodation. This strategic split is designed to increase competition, supports smaller specialist providers and reduces the risk of service disruption should a single provider fail.
The estimated value of the procurement over the initial five-year period is £2.39 million. The tender will be awarded based on quality rather than cost, ensuring the best possible support for residents within the allocated budget. The recommissioning effort is focused on ensuring Harrow continues to provide safe, high-quality, and legally compliant support for victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Performance of the new service provider will be rigorously monitored. Performance will continue to be monitored quarterly with KPIs covering referrals, outcomes, health and well-being improvements and refuge occupancy.
