Supported Accommodation Framework for Young People in Hampshire

Hampshire County Council's Children's Services Directorate is establishing a Supported Accommodation Framework to commission high-quality accommodation and support services for vulnerable young people aged 16-21 across Hampshire. This flexible framework will support Looked After Children, Care Leavers, separated children, and Children in Need. The framework operates through a two-stage process: providers first apply to join the framework by meeting strict Ofsted registration requirements, then compete for individual service delivery contracts (call-offs) as they are advertised. The framework runs for an initial 4-year term with potential extensions of up to 4 additional years. All providers must be Ofsted-registered in one of four accommodation categories: self-contained accommodation, ring-fenced shared accommodation for LAC and young care leavers, non-ring-fenced shared accommodation, or supported lodgings. Providers must maintain full compliance with Ofsted regulations and can be suspended or removed immediately if they receive placement restrictions. This is a light-touch procurement that remains open for new entrants throughout the framework term (except during any temporary pauses announced by the council). The framework may be affected by planned Local Government Reform and the transition towards Regional Care Cooperatives, which could result in contract novation to successor authorities.