Decision Maker: Assistant Director - Regeneration and Programmes and SIRO
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Is Key decision?: No
Is subject to call in?: No
Agree to extend the SLA with Citizens Advice
Mid Mercia for a further 12 months until 31st May 2024 at a cost of
£30,000.
The project is delivering free digital
training to NED residents aged 50+. The project provides training
to improve skills and confidence with a focus on breaking down the
digital divide for older people. The training builds confidence and
skills to enable people to access council services digitally and
other services such as prescription ordering, shopping and
appointment bookings as well as using social media and interacting
with family and friends to reduce social isolation. A tablet loan
service is available to residents who cannot afford to buy a smart
phone, table or computer.
This project is externally funded by Public Health at Derbyshire
County Council and will not have any financial impact on
NEDDC.
The project is delivering the aims and objectives and the funder is
keen to ensure consistency and minimise disruption in delivery. The
project has also been awarded a UKSPF grant to build capacity and
offer training to a larger section of residents. Extending the
project will ensure maximum benefit for residents. It is also
advised to remove the age limit in order for people who are
affected by cost of living challenges to access the necessary
equipment and training to find on-line support and services.
Citizens Advice Mid Mercia employs trainers and co-ordinators so a
contract extension would ensure consistency in delivery.
To proceed with a retender at this time would
have a negative impact on project delivery and momentum would be
lost. The timing of the additional funding being received by NEDDC
meant that a new procurement process would not be concluded in time
to ensure a smooth transition in delivery.
Publication date: 08/08/2023
Date of decision: 25/05/2023