Provision of Independent Approved Premises

The MoJ wish to conduct early engagement with the market to further shape its requirements and assess the viability of the market delivering the provision of Independent Approved Premises (IAP).

Approved Premises (APs) provide critical community-based provision to accommodate and manage high risk people on probation (PoP) on release from custody. Provision of accommodation on release is a key factor in reducing reoffending and supporting transition into the community whilst reducing the need for prison places.

IAPs are run by independent contracted organisations. Providers charge a monthly contract for service fee for the 24-hour, 365 day Approved Premises services: their staff, service user costs, premises and facilities management.

This early call to the market is to gauge an appetite for the delivery of such services as well as identify opportunities and ways to overcome potential challenges, the MoJ welcomes discussions and looks to hold multiple events.

The current IAP supply base consists of 15 IAPs located across England. 10 of the IAP contracts will expire in 2024. Collectively the 10 IAPs provide 224 beds. The MoJ intends to explore the market interest in a competition for the future provision of these services in England and Wales.