Supported Housing

Understanding Current and Future Need 

In 2024, the Council completed a comprehensive Supported Housing Review to assess existing provision across Thurrock, understand future demand, and identify gaps in accommodation and support services.

The review can be accessed here: 

Providers interested in delivering supported housing in Thurrock are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the review, particularly Chapter 5, which outlines the areas where additional accommodation and support may be required in the future.

What does the council need? 

Following the review, the Council developed the Supported Housing Strategy 2025-2035 which sets out the vision and priorities for supported housing over the next decade.

The strategy can be accessed here: 

In summary, the Council is seeking:

• Good quality accommodation that meets the standards set out in our Commissioning Intentions document. 

• A wider range of accommodation options, including shared and self-contained provision, houses, flats and bungalows.
• More accessible housing, particularly accommodation designed to M4(2) Accessible and Adaptable and M4(3) Wheelchair User standards.
• Flexible accommodation models that recognise individuals may have multiple and overlapping support needs.
• Holistic and multi-disciplinary support approaches that work across housing, health and social care.
• Increased provision for people with complex needs, particularly those experiencing both mental ill health and substance misuse.

Important information for providers 

The Council welcomes discussions with providers regarding potential supported housing opportunities. However, providers should note the following and the areas of need. 

• The Council cannot guarantee referrals or occupancy levels.
• Placements are made to meet the assessed needs of individual residents.
• Services are generally purchased on a spot-purchase basis when a need arises.
• Providers are only paid for service users placed with them.
• There is no guarantee of ongoing referrals or a minimum number of placements.
• The Council will select the provider that best meets the individual's needs, taking account of suitability, quality, outcomes and value for money.

Areas of Need

The review identified an ongoing requirement for more supported housing across Thurrock, with an estimated increase of 16 new places each year.  However, demand varies by both client group and location.

As a result, there may be particular areas of the borough, accommodation types or client groups where the Council has a higher level of unmet need, while in other areas the market may already be well supplied. Providers are therefore encouraged to consider current gaps identified within the review and strategy documents when developing new supported housing proposals

The chart below is updated regularly to indicate our latest need. 

What rates are paid? 

Until 31 March 2027, supported housing rates will continue to be negotiated on an individual basis. 

From 1 April 2027, the Council will move to structured rate bandings designed to ensure a consistent and transparent approach to commissioning supported housing services, for all new placements. 

The matrix will align payment levels to agreed categories of support and accommodation provision, providing clarity for providers whilst ensuring public funds are used effectively and consistently. More information will be provided in due course.