Tender for the provision of General Management and Staffing for the Winter Shelter Provision

Herefordshire Council is seeking to appoint an experienced Supplier to provide the management and staffing of a Winter Shelter Service for adults experiencing rough sleeping within Hereford. The service forms part of the Council's statutory homelessness prevention and relief duties under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and supports the objectives of the Herefordshire Homeless Prevention and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2026-2031.

The successful Supplier will be responsible for the operational management of Council-provided emergency accommodation, including resident check-in and check-out, overnight waking cover, welfare monitoring, risk management, safeguarding, property security, and day-to-day service delivery. The accommodation provides dormitory-style provision for up to 16 individuals together with two additional single-person pods, offering an immediate off-the-streets response during the winter period.

The contract is expected to commence on 2 November 2026 and continue until 29 April 2027, with the option to extend for up to three further winter delivery periods (November to April), subject to funding, governance approvals, demand, and satisfactory Supplier performance. The estimated total contract value is up to £360,000 over the full potential term, with a maximum budget of £90,000 per winter delivery period.

The procurement is being conducted using the Open Procedure under the Procurement Act 2023. The Council is seeking a Supplier with demonstrable experience of working with individuals experiencing homelessness, multiple disadvantage, trauma, mental health needs, substance misuse, and other complex support requirements, and which can deliver a safe, trauma-informed, and person-centred service.