How to apply for a supported living framework
Supported living is usually bought through a framework or a dynamic purchasing system, often split into lots by need (learning disability, mental health, complex). You pass a selection stage, then score on outcomes-focused questions about tenancy rights, person-centred support, positive behaviour support and how you keep people safe and independent. We confirm you fit the lots for free before you start.
Lots and how referrals flow
Supported living frameworks and DPS arrangements are commonly divided into lots by client group and sometimes by geography. Get on the right lot and the council can refer placements to you; pick the wrong one and the work never reaches you. Many are dynamic, so providers can join at set windows. Being on the list early matters because referrals follow the framework.
What the quality questions reward
Commissioners score outcomes and rights, not bed numbers. Expect questions on how you separate care from the tenancy, how support is genuinely person-centred, how you use positive behaviour support, and how you help people build independence and community links. Safeguarding, voids and how you manage a new placement from referral to settled are recurring scored themes. Evidence beats intention every time.
Common pitfalls
The frequent misses are bidding for a lot you cannot evidence, blurring the line between housing and care, and writing a residential-style answer for a supported living question. Our supported living tender writing page shows how we keep the bid anchored to outcomes and tenancy rights.
Not sure if you qualify for a tender? We check it for free, before you pay anything, and we only take bids we believe you can win. See our supported living tender writing or text TENDER to get started.
Common questions
What is the difference between a supported living framework and a DPS?
A framework is a closed list for a fixed period; a dynamic purchasing system stays open so new providers can join at intervals. Supported living is often run as a DPS to keep adding capacity. We explain which your target uses in your free eligibility check.
Do I need housing or property to apply?
Not always. Many supported living frameworks buy the care and support only, with housing held separately, while some lots expect you to bring or source accommodation. We check what the specific lot requires before you write.
What does the first bid cost?
£795 for your first tender. We only take bids we believe you can win, our win rate is 96%, and we rewrite free if a loss is clearly down to our writing error.
Keep reading
Service
Supported living tender writing
Learning disability framework application
What is a DPS in care
Extra care housing tender
Browse all care tender guides, or see care tender writing by service.
Got a tender to check?
Text TENDER to +44 7822 001898and we'll tell you free whether you'd qualify, before you spend a penny.