Decision

1. 1

The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director, Neighbourhood Services which sought approval to commission a Family Supported Housing service for up to 6 years. The contracts for the two services for families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness would end on the 30 November 2026 and a new service was required to avoid a gap in provision. The service would contribute to meeting statutory homelessness duties by providing a suitable alternative to Temporary Accommodation and support to develop independent living skills to minimise the risk of recurrent homelessness.

1. 2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Housing Policy Committee approves the commissioning of a service to support families with housing support needs who are at risk of homelessness or are homeless. The service would provide a minimum of 70 units under a contract for a term of six years, with a break clause at four years, with a proposed total value of £1,659,963.

1. 3

Reasons for Decision

1. 3.1

Two contracts end on the 30 November 2026. The service helps to meet statutory homelessness duties and contributes to meeting key national and local objectives to prevent homeless. Not to commission a new service would make it harder to support families at risk of or experiencing homelessness and increase the use of bed and breakfast accommodation. This would mean worse outcomes for families, alongside being a more expensive option for the Council.

1. 4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

1. 4.1

Ending the service – This would have a negative impact on vulnerable families and any immediate budget savings are likely to lead to financial pressures elsewhere by increasing the use of bed and breakfast accommodation. Ending services would be counter to the Council’s agreed strategy to end the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for families in the coming year, and to comply with the regulatory requirement to limit any placements to no more than 42 days.

1. 4.2

Not increasing the budget – Recommissioning but not uplifting the budget would bring risks that include: not being able to commission a service; commissioning a service that supports fewer families; the provider giving notice part way through the contract.

1. 4.3

Bringing the service in-house has been ruled out because families need a diverse range of provision, the Council does not have enough suitable housing stock, and partner organisations offer specialist expertise that have been demonstrated to support good outcomes.