Hospital Discharge Support Service for Homeless and At-Risk Individuals

Durham County Council is seeking experienced organizations to deliver a hospital discharge support service that prevents individuals aged 18 and over from becoming homeless after hospital discharge. The service combines in-hospital intervention and time-limited post-discharge support to ensure safe, timely, and sustainable transitions. Key service components include: early identification of homeless or at-risk individuals; in-hospital assessment, advocacy, and discharge coordination; and post-discharge support to maintain accommodation and reduce hospital readmission. The service targets individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, have drug and alcohol support needs, and are known to Adult Social Care. Staff will work flexibly, co-located within hospitals and partner services, accepting referrals from Transfer of Care Hubs, wards, Emergency Departments, and clinical teams. The service operates within the Care Act 2014 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 frameworks, supporting integrated discharge planning across health, housing, and social care systems. Successful providers will demonstrate experience in delivering person-centred support, collaborating with hospital-based clinical teams, and working within NHS Neighbourhood Hubs and multi-agency partnerships. For full requirements and application details, visit www.open-uk.org