Support Service for Provision of Supported Accommodation for Individuals who are Homeless or at Risk of Becoming Homeless

The service has been delivered by Home Group (formerly Stonham Housing) under consecutive contracts since 2015, and prior to that under the Supporting People Programme. This serves as a contract extension outside of the usual HBC Contract Procedure Rules.

To provide background an opportunity for a 5‑year contract was advertised in January 2025 for award end February 2025. Multiple clarification queries were raised during this process around costs and financial viability which required further investigation.

The issues identified required a broader review of the service model within the council. This review confirmed the essential nature of the service in supporting individuals with complex needs.

The service provides safe, secure housing and housing related support in Hartlepool with a key objective to support homeless people at risk and prevent homelessness. It is concluded that any break in these services would jeopardise tenancies, licenses to occupy and overall stability to individuals.

This extension serves to avoid a gap in service delivery and will align with the contract end date of 16th January 2027 of Lot 3 of the framework (Dispersed Supported Housing - Medium/High Complex Needs). The service provided consistently meets aim and objectives and demonstrates positive and impactful outcomes for individuals supported within Hartlepool.