Homelessness support and advice
If you become homeless over the Christmas period, and have nowhere to stay that night, please call 01993 861000 and select the relevant option from the menu.
Help rough sleepers
If you see someone bedding down or sleeping rough, please let us know by:
- using the Street Link website
- or calling our Housing Advice Team on 01993 861000
Help and advice for the homeless or those at risk of homelessness
If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness, contact us as soon as possible for an appointment to see a housing adviser. Depending on your circumstances we may be able to:
- permanently house you as a result of homelessness
- provide temporary accommodation or
- offer advice and assistance.
If you are threatened with homelessness we will need to check that you:
- qualify for assistance
- are in priority need
- are not intentionally homeless
- have a local connection with West Oxfordshire.
If there aren't any suitable temporary houses available, we may house you in temporary bed and breakfast accommodation.
Ask us for help with homelessnessOut of hours assistance
If accommodation is needed in an emergency outside of office hours please:
- Call our mainline number 01993 861000
Duty to Refer – Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
Advice for public authorities
If you are a public authority specified within the legislation, or any other organisation wishing to make a referral to West Oxfordshire District Council please:
For technical issues and queries, please contact the ALERT support team:
- by phoning 01962 851747 or
- by emailing support@npsservice.org.uk
The five Oxfordshire housing authorities, in partnership with the Oxfordshire Trailblazer Champions’ Network, have developed a county-wide procedure to support the new duty. When making referrals, partners are expected to consult and follow this procedure and the principles of the local agreement within it. This will help realise the true potential of the new duty for the people of Oxfordshire.
Oxfordshire Duty To Refer Procedure 2018 - pdf - 340 Kb
Renewal of the Preventing Homelessness Strategy – a new strategy will be adopted in early 2025.
Given that the current Preventing Homelessness Strategy has reached its review date, it is essential to affirm our ongoing commitment to preventing homelessness within the community. As we enter this new phase, the current strategy will be rolled over until early 2025 with a continued focus on the key priorities outlined in the original plan, while ensuring alignment with emerging challenges and opportunities.
Key points of focus for the rollover will include:
- Review and Adjustment: While the core objectives remain valid, the strategy will be reviewed for any necessary adjustments based on the most recent data and evolving circumstances in housing, social services, and public policy.
- Sustained Collaboration: Continued partnership with local organisations, housing authorities, and community groups will be vital to ensure effective implementation and to build upon the successful interventions already in place.
- Monitoring and Reporting: We will continue to monitor the service to ensure that we track progress effectively and adapt quickly to any unforeseen challenges.
- Community Engagement: Engaging with those affected by homelessness and those at risk will continue to be a cornerstone of our approach, ensuring that the strategy remains relevant and impactful.
By rolling over the Preventing Homelessness Strategy until the full review is complete, we aim to provide stability, build on past successes, and ensure that we continue to make meaningful progress in preventing homelessness across the community.