HAC6143 Community Equipment Purchases

Description

The London Borough of Tower Hamlets intends to enter into a Service Level Agreement with the London Borough of Newham for the purchase and supply of community equipment through Newham's membership of the Croydon Integrated Procurement Hub (IPH) Community Equipment Framework. The requirement forms part of the Council's community equipment service arrangements following the collapse of the previous provider, NRS Healthcare, in July 2025. This element of the service has been separated from the wider Community Equipment Service project and relates solely to the procurement and supply of community equipment stock. Community equipment supports adults and children with assessed care and support needs to live safely and independently within their own homes. Equipment includes, but is not limited to, moving and handling equipment, daily living aids, pressure care equipment, bathing and toileting equipment, and other specialist community equipment prescribed by health and social care professionals. The proposed arrangement will allow Tower Hamlets to access equipment supplied through the Croydon IPH Framework, ensuring continuity of supply, value for money, and compliance with procurement requirements. The arrangement will support the Council's statutory duties in relation to adult social care, children's services, hospital discharge, prevention of admissions, and promoting independence. The anticipated spend on community equipment purchases is approximately £1.9 million per annum, with the proposed arrangement operating for an initial term of 2 years with an option to extend for a further 1 year (2 + 1 years). The direct award route is being utilised through the existing framework access arrangements available via the London Borough of Newham and Croydon IPH Framework, enabling the Council to secure a sustainable and resilient supply chain for community equipment whilst longer-term commissioning options continue to be explored. Contract Details Procurement Route: Direct Award Framework: Croydon Integrated Procurement Hub (IPH) Community Equipment Framework Lead Authority: London Borough of Newham Contracting Authority: London Borough of Tower Hamlets Estimated Annual Value: £1.9 million Contract Term: 2 years plus 1-year extension option (2 + 1) Service Area: Community Equipment Purchasing and Supply Beneficiaries: Adults and children requiring community equipment across the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.