ECHC has been Contracted to provide this service since 31st March 2024 when funding was made available form the ICB for Crisis Bed provision within the East Cheshire Footprint There are plans to go out to tender of this service within this financial year. As this procurement exercise will take time there is a need to extend this current contract so there is no break and we can maintain continuity of care for patients. The Trust recommendation is that the contract with the provider is extended as all outcomes and contractual obligations are currently being met and achieved. The provider has established and is maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders and other providers of mental health care. This includes the Trust First Response teams such as Home Treatment Team, and Crisis Line who regularly refer patients to the service.