Domestic Abuse Safe Accommodation Provision

Within Cheshire West there are 3 forms of Safe Accommodation offered, Refuge & Dispersed accommodation and Sanctuary Schemes. Although the Domestic Abuse Act acknowledges the critical role of refuge in providing safety and support, particularly to those victims at high risk of serious harm, the government recognises that those harmed by domestic abuse may need to live in a variety of different forms of relevant safe accommodation. Dispersed properties are homes across CWAC ranging from one-bedroom flats to three-bedroom family homes.

164 referrals have been made to safe accommodation services over the latest 12 months; a 15.6% increase compared the same period last year (141). 76 (46.6%) of referrals were from CWaC persons harmed, 87 were from individuals residing out of borough.

Purpose of the Market Engagement

This engagement exercise is intended to:

• Inform future commissioning decisions following the abandonment of a previous tender.

• Improve understanding of current and potential service delivery models, including the role of RSLs.

• Explore market capacity, capability, and appetite for future delivery.

• Gather insight into best practice, innovation, and partnership approaches.

• Test proposals at an early stage to support a robust and deliverable future procurement.

Feedback will be used to shape a revised service model and commissioning approach, ensuring compliance with statutory duties under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.

Engagement with Registered Social Landlords (RSLs)

Cheshire West and Chester Council is also interested in engaging with Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) as part of this market engagement exercise. RSLs play a critical role in the provision of safe, secure, and sustainable housing and may be well placed to support the delivery of domestic abuse safe accommodation through the provision, management, or development of accommodation, including dispersed units. Please refer to full document on the Chest, www.the-chest.org.uk