VEAT Supported living service

Descriptions

Mulberry & Mews is a 13-bed supported living service within the mental health pathway in BaNES. The current care provider has given notice and will no longer be delivering the care & support in this supported living accommodation. BaNES is committed to ensuring the continuity of this service to meet the local identified need. The building is owned by a national housing and care provider, not BaNES Council. The decision to directly award this contract is primarily focused on ensuring a safe transfer of services and maintaining consistency with minimal disruption for the individuals currently residing at the service. These individuals are receiving crucial support as part of their mental health recovery, and without the direct award, they would face the significant upheaval of having to move from their accommodation. While we acknowledge that there are other providers in the local area who may be able to deliver the support service, the housing market in BaNES is currently experiencing significant constraints. There is a notable shortage of suitable alternative accommodations, making it highly unlikely that a large enough property could be sourced within the area to allow another provider to deliver this service within the available timeframes. This approach also allows for the full recommissioning of the service to align with future commissioning within the mental health pathway, ensuring a seamless and joined-up approach to meeting people's needs.