Supported Housing Strategy 2025-35
In 2024, the Council undertook a comprehensive review of the supported housing services it commissions across the borough. The review examined local provision, identified areas for improvement, and considered how supported housing can best meet the needs of residents now and in the future.
Following this review, we developed a Supported Housing Strategy, which sets out our vision and priorities for supported housing in Thurrock for the next ten years. The strategy aims to ensure that residents have access to high-quality accommodation and support services that promote independence, wellbeing, and positive outcomes.
The strategy also guides how we work with providers, partners, and local communities to develop a sustainable and effective supported housing offer across the borough.
View the Supported Housing Strategy:
Key priorities
The Supported Housing Strategy identifies ten key priorities that will shape the future development of supported housing services in Thurrock. These priorities are designed to ensure residents can access high-quality accommodation and support that promotes independence, wellbeing, and positive outcomes.
1. Increase the Supply and Variety of Supported Housing
Expand the range of supported housing options available to meet the diverse needs of local residents.
2. Increase the Supply of Adapted and Accessible Housing
Develop more accommodation that is accessible and suitable for people with physical disabilities, mobility needs, and long-term health conditions.
3. Reduce Out-of-Borough Placements
Enable more people to live closer to their families, support networks, and local communities by increasing accommodation opportunities within Thurrock.
4. Make Better Use of Support Resources
Ensure support hours and resources are used effectively to maximise outcomes for residents and provide value for money.
5. Develop Consistent and Transparent Pathways
Create clear and equitable routes into, through, and out of supported housing so that people can access the right support at the right time.
6. Use Housing More Flexibly Across Service User Groups
Develop a more adaptable approach to housing provision, enabling accommodation to be used effectively to meet changing needs across different client groups.
7. Increase Self-Contained Accommodation with Long-Term Security
Provide more self-contained homes with longer-term tenancy arrangements, giving residents greater stability, independence, and choice.
8. Deliver Holistic, Multi-Disciplinary Support
Promote joined-up services that address all aspects of an individual's wellbeing, including housing, health, social care, employment, and community connections.
9. Develop On-Site Multi-Disciplinary Support Models
Encourage service models that bring professionals together within supported housing settings to provide coordinated and accessible support.
10. Improve Engagement and Co-Production
Strengthen engagement with residents, their families, their carers, staff, service providers, partners, and local communities to ensure services are shaped by the people who use and deliver them.
Together, these priorities will help create a supported housing system that is responsive, sustainable, and focused on helping people live independently and thrive within their communities.