A new strategy to help prevent homelessness and support people at risk of losing their homes has been backed.
Published: Tuesday, 6th October 2026
On Monday, 5 October, Cherwell District Council’s executive approved the Oxfordshire Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy for 2026-28.
The new strategy places greater emphasis on identifying problems early and preventing people from becoming homeless. It also prioritises rapid and sustainable rehousing and joined-up support designed around people's individual circumstances.
Councillor Ian Middleton, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Greener Communities at Cherwell District Council, 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.”
Councillor Middleton will join other members of the council’s Executive who are taking part in the CEO Sleepout in Oxford this week, an event supporting Oxfordshire Homeless Movement. Their participation will provide an opportunity to raise awareness of homelessness and learn more about the experiences of people facing housing insecurity and the organisations working to support them.
The countywide approach will see Cherwell working with all Oxfordshire local authorities, alongside the NHS Thames Valley Integrated Care Board. The organisations will jointly support services such as supported accommodation, homelessness prevention and outreach for people sleeping rough.
Residents and people with direct experience of homelessness also helped shape the approach. A 10-week public consultation earlier this year gave voluntary sector organisations, people with lived experience, and residents the opportunity to comment on the proposed priorities.
The renewed two-year strategy builds on the partnership approach established in 2021 and reflects a national move towards earlier intervention and better coordination between housing, health and support services.