Rough Sleeper Assertive Outreach and Support Service

The service concerns the delivery of a rough sleeper assertive outreach contract across the Dorset Council area. The primary objectives of the contract are to achieve sustainable outcomes for rough sleepers and a reduction in numbers.

Assertive outreach engages pro-actively with rough sleepers encouraging moves into appropriate housing for safety, well-being and recovery. Routes off the street are supported by joint working and collaborative case planning. If someone refuses assistance or no route is identified, outreach teams are assertive – persistent and positive - continuing to engage and offer the right support until an offer is accepted or a suitable exit route found.

We are seeking a provider with a track record of providing trauma informed and person-centred rough sleeper outreach services.

The awarded provider will be flexible and innovative in their approach to meet the needs of rough sleepers across the Dorset Council area, identifying people in rural locations where people tend to be more hidden, hostels and temporary accommodation absent, travel distances significant and public transport lacking, while ensuring cover is available for the inevitable peaks of rough sleepers in the summer months, particularly in coastal areas.