Semi-Independent Supported Housing for Homeless People

The Council wishes to procure units of semi-independent supported housing for homeless people, aged 18+ For some homeless people, a hostel is not the optimal setting in which to develop independent living skills. A protracted stay in a hostel, particularly as independence develop and grows, can be counter-productive for some vulnerable people.

Similarly, a hostel may not always be the appropriate environment for those residents that have fewer, or less complex presenting issues, or those that already have some degree of independent living skills, as the time spent by staff providing support can often be monopolised by those residents that present with chaotic behaviours. It is expected that the target Service User profile for this service will have fewer or less complex support needs than their peers in other homeless services.

This is not to say that the target service user profile will not present with any support needs, but rather it is intended that this service will be aimed at those that may have already spent time in more intensive supported housing but who no longer require that level of support; or that they may have previously held a tenancy. The service will be expected to deliver housing-related support that is designed to maximise a person's ability to live independently and will cover aspects such as Physical/Mental Health, Finance & Budgeting, Employment, Training or Education etc. The Council is seeking bids that propose the use of dispersed single-occupancy accommodation, rather than group living.