The Community Right to Challenge was introduced in the Localism Act 2011. Under the Community Right to Challenge relevant bodies can express an interest in running a local authority service.
Relevant bodies which can express an interest in running a local authority service are:
- a voluntary or community body
- a body of persons or a trust which is established for charitable purposes only
- a parish council
- two or more employees of the relevant authority
Local authorities have a duty to consider expressions of interest submitted by relevant bodies.
If an expression of interest is accepted by a local authority, a procurement exercise will be triggered. Procurement exercises will be carried out in line with existing procurement regulations and policies.
Acceptance of an expression of interest is not a guarantee of award of contract to the relevant body. Procurement exercises are competitive and may result in another organisation being awarded a contract.
The required content of an expression of interest, the things that local authorities have to take into consideration, and the grounds on which an expression of interest can be rejected or modified are set down in Government regulations (GOV.UK).
How to submit an expression of interest
We will only consider expressions of interest received from relevant bodies during a specific period known as a 'window'.
Relevant bodies are recommended to submit expressions of interest through our form.
After submitting the form
We will let the relevant bodies know within 30 days of receipt of an expression of interest of the period in which it expects to provide notification of the decision.
Where to send your form
Send your expressions of interest form to Claire Killeen.
If you would like to discuss your interest in taking over the running of a council service before completing a formal expression of interest, or have any queries about completing an expression of interest get in touch.
Email: clare.killeen@cumbria.gov.uk
Telephone: 07771913588
Address:
Clare Killeen
Cumbria House
107 to 117 Botchergate
Carlisle
Cumbria
CA1 1RZ