Housing First Service
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real goal behind the service
What the London Borough of Lewisham is really buying isn't just a support service.
They're looking for a partner to help vulnerable adults not just survive but thrive in their tenancies.
Yes, the service provides "brief but intensive support".
But the real focus is on "tenancy sustainment" and "resolving immediate crisis".
That's the heartbeat of this tender.
The contract covers floating support across Lewisham, targeting adults with additional support needs.
Think about the people, not just the process
When you're writing your response, think about the individuals who will use this service.
These are people facing crises.
People who need immediate help to prevent their lives from spiralling further.
Write with empathy.
Describe how your approach will make a real difference in stabilising their lives.
Pay attention to what they say
The notice emphasises two things: tenancy sustainment and crisis resolution.
These aren't just buzzwords.
They're what Lewisham is basing their decision on.
They've set a clear priority.
Successful bids will show how they will address these areas consistently and effectively.
Don't just promise — prove
Every bidder will promise excellent service.
But evidence is what will set you apart.
If I were writing this tender, I'd include:
- Case studies showing successful tenancy sustainment
- Testimonials from previous clients
- Statistics on crisis resolution rates
- Examples of past challenges and how your team overcame them
Evidence always beats promises.
Remember consistency is key
Lewisham is looking for a provider who can deliver high standards throughout the contract.
Consistency is the hardest thing to deliver.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd look for:
- A plan for staff training and retention
- Methods for monitoring and maintaining service quality
- Processes for handling staff absences or emergencies
Show how you'll keep standards high every day, not just at the start.
How you'll make life easier for Lewisham
Every contract creates work for the client.
The best suppliers find ways to minimise that burden.
Explain how your communication and reporting will simplify Lewisham's oversight.
Show how you'll be proactive rather than reactive.
That will go a long way in building trust.
Think beyond the immediate term
The initial contract runs from 2027 to 2029, but it can be extended to 2033.
This is a long-term commitment.
Demonstrate how you'll adapt and scale your service over time.
What happens if needs change?
How will you ensure continuous improvement?
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
The service isn't just about providing support.
It's about changing lives.
Every decision, every process, every team member should reflect that.
When planning your response, ask yourself, "How does this help the people in Lewisham live better lives?"
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Overlook the emphasis on tenancy sustainment and crisis resolution
- Lack concrete evidence of past success
- Ignore the need for consistent service quality
- Fail to address staff training and retention plans
- Don't consider how to make Lewisham's job easier
- Miss the long-term potential of the contract
- Focus too much on process over people
My Final Thoughts
Lewisham is looking for a partner who can deliver reliable, empathetic support to vulnerable adults.
Not just for two years, but potentially for six.
With a contract value of £1,753,230, the stakes are high.
The emphasis on tenancy sustainment and crisis resolution means that quality will be crucial.
That's what will carry more weight in your submission.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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View the Full Contract & Exclusive Inside View on Bid Trawler →About our "How to Win This Contract" guides
Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.