Supported Housing

 
 

Guidelines for Prospective Accommodation Providers

LASC has a history of commissioning accommodation and support services for various asylum seeking groups including families, unaccompanied asylum seeking children (UASC) and young people, young mothers with babies and clients with special needs.

LASC has successfully built links with the private sector and developed support services for asylum seekers through the use of detailed contracts and carefully balanced service specifications.

Service providers that work with LASC are committed to meeting the needs of asylum seekers who are awaiting decisions on their applications to the Home Office for refugee status.


The Commissioning Process

The commissioning process can be broken into 3 main areas.

 

1.Service Proposal

All potential providers are required to demonstrate their proven record of service provision. This includes client groups, support services programmed, financial costings, previous experience and accommodation specification.

2. Financial Suitability

In order for potential Service Providers to be considered for a contract LASC requires that they must undergo rigorous checks that are in accordance with Westminster City Council's contracting procedure. These checks include:-

  • Submission of the last two years audited accounts and where appropriate bank references
  • References from relevant organizations with which the provider may have contracts
  • Scrutiny of the accounts and any further company checks  
  • Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks

Subject to these checks being satisfactory the Service Provider may then be listed as an Approved Contractor.

3. Health and Safety

Prior to use and occupation all potential properties will be inspected initially by LASC Contract Officers and subsequently by an Environmental Health Officer. Where appropriate any recommendations will be forwarded to the Service Provider. A further visit is carried out by the Contracts Officer to ensure that any remedial works have been completed and relevant Corgi Gas and electrical safety certificates are received prior to occupation.

It is the Contract Officer's responsibility to ensure that potential providers are fully aware of the commitment required of them to provide a high quality service within a negotiated reasonable price.

Further meetings, advice and guidance is provided as required. For more information, please contact one of the following: