Supported Living Service Models: What Commissioners Expect in 2026–2029
Share
Supported Living is evolving rapidly, with commissioners expecting clearer models, stronger outcomes and demonstrable best practice. If you're preparing for an upcoming tender or refreshing service design, it helps to understand how the core models fit within modern commissioning frameworks. For deeper practical guidance, you can also explore Transitions and PBS in Supported Living.
The Core Supported Living Service Models
1. Solo (1:1) Supported Living
Generally used for individuals with higher risks, significant trauma histories or autism with high sensory needs. Commissioners increasingly want to see:
- A clear progression plan that avoids “forever 1:1”.
- Positive Risk-Taking frameworks.
- Evidence of PBS leadership from the start.
2. Clustered Supported Living
Several self-contained flats within a single building or small site, sharing staff presence or facilities. Best practice includes:
- Flexible staffing — ability to move from solo to shared hours.
- Peer networks and social inclusion opportunities.
- Clear boundaries between tenants’ private space and shared support.
3. Dispersed Supported Living
People live in separate homes within the same local area, supported by one team. Commissioners value dispersed models because they:
- Promote ordinary community living.
- Allow natural friendships and neighbourhood roles.
- Are cost-efficient with strong rota planning.
4. Peripatetic or “Floating” Support
Staff travel between properties, typically where people have lower support needs. Good models show:
- Outcome-focused visits rather than time-and-task scheduling.
- Digital systems enabling rapid review and escalation.
- Strong links with housing and community networks.
Blended & Specialist Models
Modern commissioning increasingly mixes models, including:
- Mixed-need clusters with specialist autism flats.
- Complex step-down models bridging inpatient discharge and long-term independence.
- Short-term enablement flats supporting assessment and progression.
What “Good” Looks Like in 2026–2029
Across all models, commissioners consistently look for:
- A PBS-led culture.
- Outcome-focused support planning.
- Housing-provider partnership evidence.
- Realistic progression pathways.
- Safe but enabling risk management.
Providers who clearly articulate their model — and show how it adapts around each person — consistently score higher in Supported Living tenders.
💼 Rapid Support Products (fast turnaround options)
- ⚡ 48-Hour Tender Triage
- 🆘 Bid Rescue Session – 60 minutes
- ✍️ Score Booster – Tender Answer Rewrite (500–2000 words)
- 🧩 Tender Answer Blueprint
- 📝 Tender Proofreading & Light Editing
- 🔍 Pre-Tender Readiness Audit
- 📁 Tender Document Review
🚀 Need a Bid Writing Quote?
If you’re exploring support for an upcoming tender or framework, request a quick, no-obligation quote. I’ll review your documents and respond with:
- A clear scope of work
- Estimated days required
- A fixed fee quote
- Any risks, considerations or quick wins
📘 Monthly Bid Support Retainers
Want predictable, specialist bid support as Procurement Act 2023 and MAT scoring bed in? My Monthly Bid Support Retainers give NHS and social care providers flexible access to live tender support, opportunity triage, bid library updates and renewal planning — at a discounted day rate.
🔍 Explore Monthly Bid Support Retainers →