Servicing & Maintenance of Lifts & Hoists

Description

This contract covers the servicing, maintenance and repair of electric-powered lifts and hoists installed in the homes of Cheshire East residents, funded via Disabled Facilities Grants. The requirement relates to equipment that is out of warranty and must be maintained in accordance with manufacturer guidelines to ensure continued safe operation for vulnerable residents. The contract has been awarded without competition to the incumbent supplier to ensure continuity of a safety-critical service while the Council undertakes a comprehensive review of future service delivery options. The existing contract had reached its maximum term, and there was insufficient time to undertake full consultation and implement a revised commissioning approach without risking disruption to service delivery for over 400 residents. A range of alternative options have been explored, including full competitive tendering, use of national frameworks, and cessation or redesign of the service. However, these options were assessed as unsuitable for a short-term arrangement due to market limitations, timescales, increased costs, and the risk of service disruption. The incumbent provider has demonstrated consistently high performance, meeting or exceeding all contractual KPIs with no quality concerns or complaints. The provider also offers additional value for money through reuse of equipment and components, delivering cost savings to the Council. This direct award is for a period of 12 months only and is intended to provide sufficient time for the Council to undertake detailed option appraisal, stakeholder engagement and consultation to determine the most appropriate long-term approach to service delivery.