Scope
Reference
NCC1659
Description
Northumberland County Council would like to commission a provider to undertake the role of Independent Scrutineer of the Northumberland Children and Adults Safeguarding Partnership (NCASP). This is a mandatory role. This provider must be able to provide independent scrutiny and rigorous constructive challenge to support the Statutory Safeguarding Partners and Relevant Agencies to fulfil their responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults with needs for care and support. The role includes providing assurance regarding the effectiveness of local multi-agency arrangements in Northumberland with a particular focus on practice and supporting inclusion of the voice of children and adults in decision making and assurance. The NCASP Executive group, Business groups and subgroups meet at quarterly schedules, and the Independent Scrutineer will be required to provide scrutiny and challenge across the Partnership, hold partners to account, and have an independent view of effectiveness of both children and adults safeguarding arrangements.
Contract 1. INDEPENDENT SCRUTINEER OF NORTHUMBERLAND CHILDREN AND ADULTS SAFEGUARDING PARTNERSHIP
Supplier
Contract value
- £60,000 excluding VAT
- £72,000 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Date signed
29 October 2025
Contract dates
- 1 November 2025 to 31 October 2027
- Possible extension to 31 October 2029
- 4 years
Description of possible extension:
Maximum period of 1 year and a minimum period of 30 days, by giving to the Supplier no less than 30 days' written notice prior to the contract end date. Two 12 month extension periods available.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 75120000 - Administrative services of agencies
- 85000000 - Health and social work services
Contract locations
- UKC21 - Northumberland
Procedure
Procedure type
Below threshold - open competition
Supplier
Better Together Safeguarding Services
2 Villa View
Gateshead
NE9 5SR
United Kingdom
Region: UKC22 - Tyneside
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): Yes
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Contract 1. INDEPENDENT SCRUTINEER OF NORTHUMBERLAND CHILDREN AND ADULTS SAFEGUARDING PARTNERSHIP
Contracting authority
Northumberland County Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PJJX-1133-JRGV
County Hall
Morpeth
NE61 2EF
United Kingdom
Contact name: Rosie Cross
Email: rosie.cross@northumberland.gov.uk
Website: http://www.northumberland.gov.uk
Region: UKC21 - Northumberland
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government