Decision details

The Cabinet Member:

Awarded specific grants for Housing Related Support, which will be funded through the Housing Related Support Programme (formerly Supporting People Programme), to the following organisations for the period of 12 months, 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023:

·         Longhurst Group (formerly Axiom Housing Association) – Hostel Accommodation and Drop-in Services - £540,600.04;

·         Cross Keys Homes – Hostel Accommodation - £101,091.26;

·         Cambridgeshire & Peterborough YMCA – Hostel Accommodation - £255,060.67;

·         Futures Housing Group – Hostel Accommodation - £59,227.89

·         Home Group – Hostel Accommodation - £74.842.70

The recommendations in this report will ensure that the continuity of Housing Related Support to some of the most vulnerable in society is achieved, whilst a longer-term solution is explored.

Housing Related Support is provided for vulnerable people, often with complex support needs either in an accommodation-based setting, through drop-in support or through floating support provided by outreach workers.  Our evidence shows that the Housing Related Supportprovided through the homeless hostels plays a significant role in helping to reduce homelessness in the city.  Drop-in and floating support reaches hard to engage groups, assisting people with complex and entrenched needs, often living chaotic lifestyles. 

The Homelessness Act 2002 sets out the Council’s powers to meet the aims of the act and its duties towards homeless people.

Cut funding completely and stop the Housing Related Support.  Rejected due to the adverse impact on the provision of hostel provision and homeless prevention.

Carry out a full procurement exercise now – rejected.  A full procurement exercise is underway with an achievable timeline to have contracts in place by April 2023

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