Hampshire County Council has launched its Supported Accommodation Framework Agreement, presenting an exceptional opportunity for specialist supported accommodation providers to secure a place on a high-value public sector contract. Focused on 16-21-year-old young people, this framework aims to deliver essential supported accommodation services across Hampshire, offering stability and specialist support to vulnerable young people making the transition to independent living.
If you are considering bidding, contact Thornton & Lowe for a quick and expert review of your readiness.
About the Supported Accommodation Framework
This framework is commissioned solely by Hampshire County Council's Children's Services Directorate. It covers the provision of accommodation-based support for young people aged 16-21, with an estimated total value of £242,000,000 including VAT. The framework is structured as an initial term of four years, with options to extend for a further four years in two-year increments, up to a maximum of eight years in total. Suppliers should note this carefully: the full £242m figure represents the potential maximum value over eight years, not a guaranteed four-year contract.
A critical eligibility requirement is that all providers must hold current Ofsted registration in one or more approved categories for supported accommodation. This is a firm prerequisite, not simply a desirable criterion. Providers should verify their registration status before committing to a bid. Thornton & Lowe has supported numerous care and supported housing providers through frameworks of this nature; our social care tender writing experts understand what Hampshire's evaluators will be looking for.
Bidding Considerations and Key Information
- Carefully review the published service categories and framework structure within the full tender notice. The framework is designed to be flexible and future-ready, covering a wide range of supported accommodation services at varying levels of support intensity.
- The potential eight-year duration provides both income security and the chance to embed proven delivery models. This benefits established providers and those seeking to scale up in Hampshire.
- Hampshire County Council alone is listed as the contracting authority, meaning streamlined management, clear lines of responsibility, and a long-term partnership with a single, experienced buyer.
- Providers must demonstrate robust safeguarding, measurable outcomes, and a deep understanding of the Ofsted Inspection Framework. Because the end users are young people aged 16-21 (including looked-after children and care leavers), evaluators will scrutinise your track record in supported housing, youth engagement, and transition to independent living closely.
Quick Facts
- Authority: Hampshire County Council (Children's Services Directorate)
- Framework Value: Up to £242,000,000 (inc. VAT) over maximum 8 years
- Initial Term: 4 years, with two x 2-year extension options
- Service Users: Young people aged 16 to 21
- Eligibility: Ofsted registration required for all providers
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: 18 May 2026
- View the official tender notice
Tips for Success
- Confirm Ofsted registration before bidding: Registration is a mandatory requirement. Ensure your category of registration matches the service types you intend to deliver.
- Demonstrate proven outcomes: Use evidence from similar contracts (particularly those with local authorities) with a focus on young people's progression towards independence, reduced placement breakdown, and positive transitions.
- Highlight local partnerships: If you already collaborate with organisations in Hampshire or have established referral pathways into local services, make this clear.
- Plan for long-term delivery: Show how you will invest in continuous improvement and workforce stability, which is crucial given the potential eight-year term.
Next Steps
This framework is one of the largest and most ambitious opportunities in the young people's supported accommodation market right now. Thornton & Lowe has helped providers successfully secure places on frameworks like this. Get in touch for a rapid, realistic assessment of your fit and to discuss how we can support you through the bid process.
