Supported accommodation for care leavers in Derbyshire to be ramped up

High quality accommodation and support for young care leavers in Derbyshire is set to increase thanks to a new contract awarded to Framework and Adullam Homes by Derbyshire County Council.

The new contract sees the two long-standing partner organisations working together to provide high-quality accommodation in Derbyshire to help young people develop independence and prepare for adult life in a safe and nurturing environment. 

Framework and Adullam are two well-established providers who this year celebrate 15 years of collaboration to deliver specialist housing and support for young people in Derbyshire. Both organisations are OFSTED-registered providers. 

Current accommodation by the two organisations, to suit all levels of individual support and need, covers all areas of the county.

The new contract is awarded by Derbyshire County Council, and will see the current provision increase from 90 units to 160 units within the next two years. 

As a result, more young people in need aged 16 to 25 will be able to access safe, high quality, local, supported accommodation. Young people in the county come into supported accommodation from various settings, including home environments, foster care, residential children's homes, secure settings and hospitals.

Framework and Adullam also involve young people in the design of the services through monthly resident meetings, induction activities, activities and fun days, tenancy preparation workbook sessions, and residents’ forum and consultation groups. 

Young people will shortly take part in an exercise to come up with a name for this new service, formerly known as Step-Up. This is expected to be announced in the new year. 

Steve Watson, Framework Director of Homelessness Services, said: “Supporting care leavers into safe, stable accommodation isn’t just good practice – it’s the mark of a society that refuses to leave its most vulnerable behind. We’re proud to deliver this vital service for Derbyshire County Council, in partnership with Adullam. As the programme nearly doubles in size over the next 18 months, it will not only empower young people to step confidently into independence, but also deliver real value for money for the Council and for every taxpayer.”

Dave Moore, Adullam Assistant Director of Quality & Assurance, said: “Adullam Homes is delighted to be working with Framework to deliver this important contract. We have many years of experience in providing quality housing and support for children and young people. Our services are built on strong, trusted partnerships with local authorities and local specialist agencies, helping children and young people build bright futures by encouraging them, providing safe environments, and by hearing their voice every step of the way.”

Sam Redfern, Cabinet member for children and families, Derbyshire County Council, said: “We’re committed to supporting young people who are leaving care to help them lead safe, interdependent lives. Being able to provide them with high-quality, stable accommodation close to communities that they know will help them as they take their first steps into adulthood and on to the rest of their lives.”

The contract began on 1st October 2025 and runs to 30 September 2030 with a possible extension to 30th September 2034.