Services Contract for s202 Homelessness Reviews

The Council is seeking to procure a qualified and experienced provider to undertake statutory homelessness reviews under Section 202 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended). The provider will be responsible for conducting fair, timely, and legally compliant reviews of homelessness decisions made by the Council.

The duties of the successful provider will include undertaking the statutory review process. They will issue Regulation 5 letters to applicants, informing them that a review will be carried out. They will conduct all necessary enquiries, including but not limited to:

(i) Writing to GPs, landlords, support workers, and legal representatives.

(ii) Reviewing case files and evidence provided by the applicant and the Council.

(iii) Interview applicants where required, either:

o By telephone, or

o In person, at a mutually agreed location.

(iv) Issue Regulation 7 letters where applicable, confirming the outcome of Section 202 reviews.

(v) Request extensions to the statutory review period (21 or 56 days) where necessary, providing clear justification and notifying the Council promptly.

(vi) Prepay expenses (e.g., postage, travel) to avoid delays in the review process.