Provision of Hostel Accommodation and Associated Support in South Somerset

South Somerset District Council's (SSDC) housing service aims to prevent homelessness and rough sleeping in South Somerset. Rough sleeping is relatively low in our district and this is mainly due to the provision of hostel accommodation in Yeovil and the proactive work of the rough sleeper outreach team, together with successful multi-agency working within South Somerset.

However our rough sleeping numbers are increasing slowly, due to rising issues with active county lines within the district. There is an increased number of homeless applicants with drug and alcohol issues not meeting the criteria for alternative temporary accommodation provided by the Local Authority under homeless legislation, and there is a chronic lack of affordable accommodation in the private sector.

Aim of service:

• To deliver accommodation and associated support for individuals who are homeless in South Somerset:

• The service is aimed at adults who are homeless or at risk of homeless as referred by SSDC

• The service is largely for single adults and established couples with medium to high support needs

• The service is for the provision of hostel accommodation in Yeovil and associated housing management and support; it is expected that the costs of accommodation will largely be met by the service users through an occupancy agreement. It is anticipated service users will be in receipt of Housing Benefit and/or Universal Credit

• The service provider will be expected to work closely with other local partners/delivery organisations to support customers and reduce homelessness in South Somerset

Mandatory requirements:

A) Provision of a minimum 30 bed direct access hostel accommodation in Yeovil

B) Provision of a minimum 10 emergency beds

C) Provision of rough sleeper outreach service

D) Provision of support for all customers tailored and suitable to their individual needs

Outcomes sought:

• Reduce homelessness in South Somerset

• Reduce the number of rough sleepers in South Somerset

• Reduce the number of repeat rough sleepers and long term 'entrenched' rough sleepers

• People who need accommodation and/or support are able to access it, including emergency accommodation if appropriate

• Reduce the number of repeat offenders leaving prison and accessing supported accommodation

• People leave supported accommodation in a planned and sustainable way and are assisted to access floating support if needed

• People gain the skills they need to live independently

• Minimise unplanned or negative move-on's through effective engagement with other services