Framework for The Provision of Suitable Housing for Separated Young Adults 18+

Cumberland Council is looking to procure a (closed) framework for providers with the capacity, required skills and experience to deliver a service for the Provision of Suitable Housing for Separated Young Adults 18+.

Separated young people are aged less than 18 years arriving in the UK unaccompanied by a parent or guardian, and who claim asylum. On entry to the UK, these young people become cared for by Cumberland Council.

When a separated young person reaches the age of 18, (become a young adult), under Sections 23C-E and 24 of the Children Act, as amended by the Children Leaving Care Act 2000, Local Authorities continue to have duties and powers in respect of separated young adults.

Before receiving right to remain, the young adults have no recourse to public funds and therefore cannot enter into tenancy agreements for a home. This service seeks to provide suitable accommodation for these young adults. In addition to accommodation an element of low level support will also be required to negotiate the right to remain process, and once acquired, to support the young adults to find permanent homes and access all benefit entitlements.

The council proposes to enter into the framework from the 1st March 2026 with the successful tenderers. The initial framework period is from 1st March 2026 - 28th February 2029. The framework end date of 28th February 2030 is the date the framework will end if the potential 12 months extension is used. Use of this extension is at the absolute discretion of the council. Any extension will be confirmed with the successful suppliers if implemented.

The highest estimated value is £1,076,400 excluding VAT. This is for the initial term and the potential 12 months extension period.

The Framework is divided into three Lots:

• Lot 1: Flexible Block

The Authority guarantees a minimum number of beds with the ability to add/reduce that level (where there is a change in demand) upon notice.

• Lot 2: Fixed Block

A block contract for a specified number of beds for the life of the contract.

• Lot 3: Direct Award

A contract for an individual to be used in the event of an emergency, extenuating circumstances, service user choice, or in other circumstances that the Authority considers it appropriate for meeting the needs of the young adults.

For further details and to access the tender documents, including the service specification, use the council's online procurement portal - The Chest - https://www.the-chest.org.uk.

Registration on The Chest is free. All bids must be received electronically via The Chest by the closing date stated in the ITT.

Any clarifications you have about the tender must be sent via messaging on The Chest by the closing date stated in the ITT.