Council backs new strategy to prevent homelessness and support people at risk in Banbury

Cherwell District Council’s executive approved the Oxfordshire Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy for 2026-28 on Monday (October 5).

The strategy places greater emphasis on identifying problems early and preventing people from becoming homeless.

It also prioritises helping people find secure, long-term accommodation quickly, with support tailored to their individual needs.

Councillor Ian Middleton, the council’s portfolio holder for housing and greener communities, said: “Losing a home, or facing the possibility of homelessness, can have a profound impact on every aspect of someone's life.

“The best outcome is always to prevent homelessness from happening in the first place. This renewed strategy strengthens that focus on early help while making sure that, if someone does become homeless, they can access the right support and have the best possible chance of finding a sustainable home.

“By continuing to work closely with councils, health services and other partners across Oxfordshire, we can make the best use of our collective expertise and resources to support some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.”

Under the strategy, Cherwell District Council will work with other Oxfordshire local authorities and the NHS Thames Valley Integrated Care Board to support services including supported accommodation, homelessness prevention and outreach for people sleeping rough.

Residents, voluntary organisations and people with experience of homelessness were invited to help shape the strategy through a 10-week public consultation this year.

The plan builds on partnership working established in 2021, with a renewed focus on early intervention and better coordination between housing, health and support services.