The Health and Wellbeing Board hosted its third thematic ‘Deep Dive’ workshop in October 2023, focussing on supported housing, aiming to understand the root causes affecting residents’ health and wellbeing. The report which was subsequently produced (and featured on this page) outlines the session’s key findings for consideration by the Board.

Key Points from the HWBB Deep Dive on Supported Housing

• Main Themes & Observations
  • Housing First Approach: Stable, suitable housing is fundamental for health and wellbeing; a ‘housing first’ model is preferred.
  • Holistic, Person-Centred Support: Current approaches often address issues in isolation; a shift to holistic, wrap-around support is needed.
  • Rising Complexity: There’s a significant increase in households with multiple support needs (notably, a 219% increase in those with 3+ needs from 2021–22 to 2023–24).
  • Navigation Challenges: The system is often too rigid, making it hard for those with complex needs to access support.
  • Role of VCSE Sector: Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise organisations are vital; more collaborative commissioning is recommended.
  • Social Isolation: Connectivity and community links are crucial in housing solutions.
  • Early Intervention: Early, low-level support can prevent escalation and reduce long-term costs.
  • Workforce Capacity: Emphasis on trauma-informed care, early intervention, and consistent, culturally sensitive staffing.
  • Physical Housing Stock: Data on affordable and supported housing in East Riding was shared; 2,914 people on the housing list have support needs.
  • Data Integration: Cross-referencing adult social care and housing data is underway to better forecast and meet needs.

• Proposed Actions
  • Strengthen strategic planning to increase the supply and suitability of supported housing.
  • Foster collaboration and data sharing among partners.
  • Expand cross-referencing of data between Adult Social Care, Housing, and potentially Children’s Services.
  • Encourage all partners to review their practices and contribute to the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment.
  • Maximise every contact by considering housing’s role in wider determinants of health.

• Conclusion
  • The workshop highlighted the need for system-wide, collaborative approaches to supported housing.
  • Board members are invited to share needs, opportunities, and ideas for further collaboration.