Support Service for Women who are Sex Working in Leeds

Location

Leeds

Description

The service carries out assertive outreach and engagement activity in a range of settings, focusing on the women with the most complex needs and most at risk, working to build trusting relationships with these individuals. The service provides holistic, one to one intensive support, peer support and groups which aim to empower the women while acknowledging how past trauma has affected them. They support vulnerable women to access the services they need and make positive changes in their lives, which will deliver significant mental and physical health outcomes and improve their safety.

Ammendments to Previous Notice

Award Detail

CPV Codes

• 85000000 - Health and social work services

Indicators

• Contract modified due to additional needs.

Legal Justification

This modification is essential to maintain services for women who are sex working and homeless or at risk, during the strategic review. Since the 2023 contract start, delivery costs have risen significantly, mainly due to staff wages. Increased living costs and higher employer National Insurance contributions make the current contract value unsustainable. A full needs analysis is required to define the service's strategic role in homelessness, health, and wellbeing outcomes. Funding comes annually from Communities, Housing & Environment, Public Health, Safer Stronger Communities, and Leeds ICB budgets. Budget uncertainty across these four holders requires more time for review and confirmation before re-procurement. The proposed increase follows provider evidence and efficiency measures; it ensures safe continuity of high-demand services. Disruption must be avoided as service users present growing needs and complexities. A wider Housing Related Support review will occur before the contract ends in 2027. Modifying now aligns this service with future government funding decisions and the 2025-26 spending review.