Overview

COVID-19 UPDATE

Service Providers are advised that, should they have a current Council contract/framework in place the local agreement and rates apply, given that it is expected that there will be a gradual implementation of this framework by Councils/HSCPs, at a time when all parties are best placed to effect new arrangements.

For any queries, please contact the Adult Social Care Team at AdultSocialCare@scotland-excel.org.uk.

This flexible framework is a collaborative agreement for the provision of care and support services (care at home and supported living/housing support services) in Scotland. It is the first framework approach for Care and Support services on nationally agreed terms and conditions, service delivery and quality standards.

The services will predominantly be delivered in people’s own homes and in their communities. This will help people to achieve their personal outcomes and live independently for as long as possible, with the support they need provided in a homely or community-based setting. It also supports Scottish Government and Health and Social Care ambitions for prevention of early admission to hospital, and enables early supported discharge.

Seventy-eight (78) providers have been awarded to the framework. Full details can be found in the Service Directory Section or individual providers Award Schedule (Provider Information) in the Documentation Section.

Flexible Framework:

The flexible framework will re-open on a six (6) monthly basis throughout the it’s four (4) year duration. This will allow new providers to join, ensuring a diverse range of services and providers are available to meet the varying needs of people across the country, and promote choice for people who need support.

As well as this, awarded providers can make variations to their services at any point throughout the four (4) year duration. For example, adding a new service, changing a geographical area or adding an additional care group to support.

The overarching aim of the flexible framework is to increase choice for people using services and deliver value for money in terms of price, service and quality. It will also increase transparency in the market and an improved understanding of the cost of Care and Support services. It also seeks to drive innovation and best practice on a national level.

Main Users:

This national framework agreement has been developed to allow Scottish Councils and Health and Social Care Partnerships (HSCPs) and associate members/other bodies to commission and procure a variety of care and support services within Scotland.

The flexible framework is predominantly for people using Self-directed Support (SDS) Option 3, Councils/HSCPs can also use the Service Directory to assist the Supported Person to choose a provider to help them achieve their Outcomes (SDS Option 2). All services will be delivered in line with the Social Care (Self-directed Support) (Scotland) Act 2013.

Key Benefits:

• Standardised commissioning and procurement approach for both Local Authorities, HSCP’s and providers;
• Enhanced Matching Process for Councils;
• Simple to use Service Directory, allowing commissioners to “search and select” providers, offering choice of services, quality gradings and hourly base rates and local variable rates where applicable;
• Purchase care at home and supported living services separately, while also identifying where there are providers who can deliver a dual service;
• Standard suite of documentation and guidance that compliments individual Local Authority procurement regulations and HSCP assessment, care management and review processes;
• Improved flexibility for awarded providers to add new services to the framework and for new providers to apply to be on the framework at set periods throughout the duration of the agreement; and
• Single and streamlined approach to contract monitoring including continued delivery of the Real Living Wage and wider fair work practices.