The Supported Housing Improvement Programme (SHIP) aims to help improve and uphold standards of supported housing for vulnerable people in:
- Medway
- Swale
- Tunbridge Wells
- Maidstone.
The programme has been introduced by the government following the Supported Housing Regulatory Oversight Bill and is funded by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
We'll work with new and existing providers as well as residents to ensure acceptable standards in support and accommodation are provided.
Find out more about supported housing in Medway.
SHIP aims
We want residents of supported housing to have safe, appropriate accommodation which meets their needs.
We support those looking to live as independently as possible, as well as those who are looking to move on to more independent living over time.
The aims of the programme include:
- inspecting accommodation standards and enforcement activity
- reviewing the support provided to residents
- enhancing the audit of Housing Benefit claims
- strategic planning based on need and supply assessments.
SHIP values
This project is built on a set of core values, which include:
- a shared vision
- co-production
- understanding
- open and honest communication.
The SHIP team
Under the programme, a new dedicated and multi-disciplinary team has been formed.
The SHIP team will work with both providers and residents by:
- making visits to support providers
- supporting providers to meet the required standards and Medway’s Quality Assessment Framework
- reviewing new and existing Housing Benefit claims
- running regular service reviews
- investigating concerns
- giving local partnered councils evidence to inform decisions.
Provider forum
There is also a provider forum which will:
- raise provider awareness of quality expectations
- offer group training sessions
- give advice on suggested improvements.
More information
To find out more about SHIP, email shiprog@medway.gov.uk.
Medway Council is leading the SHIP pilot, and have partnered with Swale Borough Council, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Maidstone Borough Council.