Framework Agreement for the Provision of Funeral Service Arrangements (for Public Health Funerals) in the London Borough of Waltham Forest

The Council of the London Borough of Waltham Forest ("the Authority") invites suitably qualified and experienced organisations to Tender for appointment to the Framework Agreement for the Provision of Funeral Service Arrangements (for Public Health Funerals) in the London Borough of Waltham Forest ("the Framework").

The Framework will commence on 1st April 2021 and, subject to satisfactory performance shall continue to midnight on 31st March 2024 ("the Framework Period"). At the sole discretion of the Authority and subject to the satisfactory performance of the provider the Framework Period may be extended in such period or periods as the Authority deems appropriate providing a total possible Framework Period to midnight on 31st March 2025.

It is estimated that three (3) providers are to be appointed to the Framework. Organisations are advised that whilst it is the intention of the Authority to utilise the Framework as the primary source of the service, the Authority reserves the right to obtain the service from alternative sources should this present best value. Further, appointment of an organisation on the Framework does not guarantee any minimum level of income for the organisation or that the organisation will be awarded any Call-Off Contract during the Framework Period. All Call-Off Contracts shall be awarded in accordance with the procedures in the Tender Documents and Framework Agreement.

The Authority has a statutory duty under the provisions of Section 46 of the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984 to undertake the funeral of a deceased person, who died in the borough of Waltham Forest and where no other arrangements have been made, or are about to be made.

The Authority arranges Burials and Cremations, for residents who die or have been found dead within the Authority's boundaries be it in hospital, Council or Private Care Homes or their own homes where there is no family or third party to complete the funeral arrangements. This includes persons who may be of no fixed abode and die within the geographical boundary of the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

The successful Provider shall be required to arrange a funeral, be it burial or cremation, in accordance with the requirements of this Specification and/or any relevant pre-paid funeral plans of the deceased or family burial plots of an existing grave on behalf of the Authority.