A new activity centre is set to open, providing extensive services for adults with serious mental health difficulties.
Based in Oxford, the facility will serve people with complex psychological needs, helping them work towards living independently.
The centre will deliver structured programmes designed to aid recovery and develop essential life skills.
Due to begin operations next month at Scrutton Close in Headington, the site functions as a residential facility run by Response, Oxfordshire’s largest independent mental health charity.
Emma Murphy, associate director of fundraising, marketing and communications at Response, explained that Scrutton Close plays a crucial role in their goal to transform lives through tailored mental health support and housing help. She noted that it creates a safe, supportive environment for people taking their first steps towards independent living after leaving round-the-clock intensive care services. According to Murphy, opening a new activity centre will mark an important moment for the site, expanding its ability to help residents build self-reliance and meaningful relationships so people can move forward in their lives.
The new centre will offer a dedicated space for residents to take part in workshops and sessions aimed at improving their psychological, emotional, and social development.
Planned activities include art, music lessons, and craft sessions, cooking courses, money management advice, independent living training, gardening, exercise, and social gatherings.
These initiatives aim to help residents regain confidence, restore stability, and progress in their recovery after leaving more intensive care environments.
Funding for the centre came from a successful £20,000 grant application, along with donations from the G W Bartington Will Trust and another significant donor.
The facility will strengthen Scrutton Close’s existing services, which include 15 self-contained apartments, communal outdoor areas, and specialist help with recovery planning, daily living skills, and medication management.
Currently, many activities at Scrutton Close take place in shared spaces, which often prove insufficient for group work.
The new centre will offer a purpose-built, residents-only environment that promotes community and belonging.
Ms Murphy stated that steady mental health begins with safe housing, representing the basic need for someone to feel secure and in control of their life, whatever personal difficulties they may face. She noted that the new activity centre would simply enhance their outcomes, and the organisation looked forward to celebrating its opening the following month.
Response’s latest impact report showed that from February 2025, just two percent of its residents needed to be readmitted to hospital.
The organisation also highlights its role in reducing strain on public services and lowering the risk of homelessness for people leaving intensive care.