Oxfordshire is changing how it tackles homelessness, with community members invited to share their views.

The county’s councils and partner organisations are updating the regional Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy for 2026 to 2028, launching a six-week public consultation.

The updated strategy prioritises strengthening prevention work, reducing the number of people sleeping rough, and preparing for major changes in housing and governance anticipated before the conclusion of 2028.

Oxford City Council’s housing cabinet member acknowledged that the scale and complexity of homelessness in Oxfordshire are increasing, and no single organisation can address this challenge independently. The cabinet member explained that this refreshed strategy reinforces their shared pledge to prevent homelessness whenever feasible, decrease rough sleeping, and support individuals in finding safe, permanent housing. The cabinet member noted they are seeking input from all residents so they can develop a strategy that genuinely addresses their communities’ requirements.

The new strategy builds on the county’s original joint homelessness approach put in place from 2021 to 2026, which introduced initiatives including a housing-first model, improved outreach services, and the creation of the Oxfordshire Homelessness Alliance.

Despite these developments, homelessness levels have continued due to cost-of-living pressures, a shortage of affordable housing, and increasing demand for temporary accommodation and specialist support services.

West Oxfordshire District Council’s housing and social care executive member stated that effective collaboration across Oxfordshire is crucial for responding to mounting pressures on housing and homelessness services. The executive member explained that this refreshed strategy outlines a clear path for strengthening prevention measures, improving access to stable housing, and ensuring those requiring assistance receive appropriate support. The executive member urged both residents and organisations to participate and help develop a plan that creates meaningful, lasting change throughout their communities.

The strategy identifies five principal areas: placing prevention first, providing housing-led accommodation, enabling rapid transitions, adopting a person-centred approach, and sustaining strong partnerships.

Oxfordshire County Council’s adult services cabinet member expressed full endorsement of this public consultation on an updated countywide Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy. The cabinet member noted that Oxfordshire’s local authorities and partners have worked diligently to assist those experiencing homelessness, and this refreshed plan enhances their joint dedication to prevention and early intervention.

The updated plan also introduces countywide performance measures to track advancement in areas such as prevention, temporary accommodation usage, rough sleeping, transition rates, and housing-led outcomes.

The consultation encourages participation from local residents, charitable groups, landlords, health partners, individuals with lived experience of homelessness, and any other interested parties.

Further information and supporting materials are available through Oxford City Council’s consultation portal.