Agenda item

To consider the scrutiny call-in of the cabinet member decision of 8 April 2020 in respect of the Contract Award – Generalist legal advice services 2020-2025.

Councillor Jane Salmon, introduced the reasons for call-in.

The committee heard from Councillor Rebecca Lury, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Equalities and Communities and Jessica Leech, Community Engagement Manager.

The committee also heard from Tim Clark, Citizens Advice Southwark and Sally Causer, Southwark Law Centre.

The committee discussed the merits of the call-in and agreed the following:

RESOLVED:

1.  That having considered the decision and all relevant advice, that the matter not be referred back to the cabinet member for consideration.

2.  That the following recommendations be referred to the deputy leader and cabinet member for culture, leisure, equalities and communities for consideration:

·  That a review of the budget process be undertaken with providers and draw out any lessons to be learnt for future processes.

·  That the council and service providers work together on a longer term approach to deal with the long term implications relating to Covid-19.

·  That the impact of the budget reductions on the service be monitored.

·  That the council review very seriously the capacity of advice services to continue to respond to increased demand for advice services in light of Covid-19.