London seeking partners for homeless aid agencies [Video]

A formal Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) posted on the City of London’s bids and tenders website seeks new lead agencies and locations for low-barrier service hubs that will temporarily shelter people experiencing homelessness.

In 2023, city council endorsed the Whole of Community Response to Homelessness that includes a plan to open 600 supportive housing spaces and up to 15 service hubs to get people out of tents and on a pathway towards stable housing.

To date, only two hubs have been approved by council and opened.

The new REOI seeks lead agencies willing to, “have, source, establish, and operationalize a Hub location(s) to provide for a range of care and services, including 24/7 safe spaces with access to basic needs, healthcare services and housing supports.”

A new hub would have up to 35 beds (a combination of transitional and respite spaces).

“Respondents are required to provide a Hub …