Rough Sleeping Outreach and Navigator Procurement
A practical guide to understanding what Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council really wants and how to build a winning response.
This isn't just about finding homes
When you look at this tender, don’t get distracted by the mechanics of sourcing accommodation.
Yes, that's part of it.
But Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council is really buying a solution to rough sleeping in their community.
It's about prevention, intervention and recovery.
The RSI Navigator and Outreach service is tasked with not only finding suitable accommodation but ensuring individuals can maintain these tenancies over time.
The contract covers a three-year period with a value of £300,000, focusing on entrenched rough sleepers in Oldham.
Pay attention to what they say
Oldham Council is clear that the RSI Navigator service is integral to their broader rough sleeping strategy.
They highlight three principles: Prevention, Intervention and Recovery.
These aren't just buzzwords.
They're the framework for your entire response.
The Council emphasises that achieving these principles is key to ending rough sleeping in Oldham.
That's what I'd focus on in my submission.
Think about the people, not just the process
Rough sleepers aren't just service users.
They're individuals with complex lives and needs.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see that you understand this.
How will you engage with those who have been sleeping rough for years?
What are your plans to build trust and rapport?
Remember, this is about people first, process second.
Show your track record in tenancy sustainment
The Council is looking for evidence of success in tenancy sustainment.
They want to know you can not only place individuals into accommodation but keep them there.
This means demonstrating past successes with similar vulnerable populations.
Use specific examples.
- Case studies of individuals you've helped
- Data on tenancy sustainment rates
- Testimonials from previous clients or partners
Evidence always beats promises.
Don't underestimate the power of networks
One thing that stands out is the need for effective networks of support.
Oldham Council wants a provider who can build these networks within the community.
Consider how you'll connect rough sleepers with services like health care, employment and mental health support.
Networks can be a lifeline for individuals transitioning from the streets to sustained tenancies.
That's what I'd build my submission around.
Address the ongoing journey, not just the starting point
The Council isn't just interested in getting people off the streets.
They're looking for a provider who can support rough sleepers through their entire journey.
From temporary accommodation schemes like A Bed Every Night (ABEN) to independent tenancies.
Continuity of care is crucial.
Explain how your service will stay with individuals through these transitions.
Think long-term, not just immediate impact
The contract may be three years, but the impact should be lasting.
Oldham Council is looking for a solution that makes rough sleeping "rare, brief and non-recurring."
How will your service ensure that people don’t return to the streets?
Consider long-term strategies for recovery and independence.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
This isn't just about hitting targets or meeting KPIs.
It's about changing lives.
Oldham Council is entrusting you with a mission to end rough sleeping in their borough.
That's a huge responsibility and one that requires empathy, commitment and a genuine desire to make a difference.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on accommodation without addressing tenancy sustainment
- Lack evidence of previous success with vulnerable populations
- Overlook the importance of building community support networks
- Fail to demonstrate understanding of the Council's three principles
- Ignore the ongoing support required post-accommodation
- Treat rough sleepers as a homogenous group, ignoring individual needs
- Present generic responses that could apply to any borough
- Underestimate the importance of long-term recovery strategies
My Final Thoughts
Oldham Council is looking for more than just an outreach service.
They're seeking a partner in their mission to end rough sleeping.
This contract is valued at £300,000 over three years, but its impact should be priceless.
Quality will likely weigh heavily in their decision, given the nature of the service.
Your written submission needs to reflect this.
Focus on the human impact, your proven track record and your capacity to build and sustain support networks.
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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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.