Purpose

The Supported Housing Funding is a fantastic opportunity for BCC to develop and commission increased accommodation and support offers that meet the needs of people experiencing rough sleeping and multiple disadvantage.
The funding was awarded in February 2026 for three years – 2026-2029 at values of £10.9 million, with £2.8 million available in 2026/27.
The full funding paper is going to committee in September 2026, however approval is sought to enter into a grant agreement with Bristol Hospitality Network ahead of this, to allow time to prepare for the service starting in October.

Decision

The decision is to approve the processing of a grant agreement with Bristol Hospitality Network (BHN), ahead of Committee approval for the full funding spend, in order that the service can be operational by 1 October 2026. This allows BHN time for recruitment and implementation of the service.

Alternative options considered

BHN have been approached to deliver in-reach support and community building for people with No Recourse To Public Funds as they are a trusted provider that BCC have funded previously to carry out work with asylum seekers and people with NRPF as they are sector experts.