West Oxfordshire District Council

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Homelessness

Please note: No one needs to sleep rough during the coldest weather, we will ensure everyone has access to shelter. Call 01865 304600.

Depending on your circumstances the Council may have a duty to permanently house you as a result of homelessness, or in some cases, provide temporary accommodation or advice and assistance only.

If you are eligible for help, accommodation will be secured, pending completion of investigations into the cause of homelessness.

Due to limited housing availability, temporary bed and breakfast accommodation, may be secured when there are no other suitable temporary houses vacant.

Anyone worried about becoming homeless should contact us for advice as soon as possible. If sufficient warning is given, it may be possible to secure housing through the Common Waiting List.

If you are threatened with homelessness the Council must determine whether an applicant is:

Eligible for assistance
Homeless
In priority need
Not intentionally homeless
Considered to have a local connection with West Oxfordshire

Further enquiries will be made into your application to verify the information you have given us. We will keep you informed on the progress of enquiries and advised when a formal decision has been made.

If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness contact Housing Services for an appointment to see a Housing Officer.

See contact details for how to obtain assistance out of office hours.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Further information is given in the following downloads Homeless Information, Homelessness - Domestic Violence, Homelessness for Ex-MOD, Homelessness for Families, Housing for Young People, Homelessness Appeals Leaflet

For Independant housing Advice visit Shelter at http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice

Young People

Housing Services offers 16 and 17 year olds advice about housing options and support whilst homeless. For further information telephone 01993 861158 or contact Housing Services.

We can also give basic advice to young people aged 16 - 25. You can make an appointment at the Town Centre Shop in Witney, where an appointment will be made or by telephone us on 01993 861010.

Young people can also obtain additional information on homelessness by going to

http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/advice_for_young_people

Oxfordshire Supported Lodgings

Oxfordshire Supported Lodgings provides a young person with a room of their own in a private home where they are a member of the household, but are not expected to become a member of the family. The householder, known as a Host, provides a safe and supportive environment, working alongside professional services to help the young person to develop their life skills and prepare them for independent adult life.

Why do Young People need Supported Lodgings?

Some young people are not able to live at home and would benefit from developing their independence whilst living with a responsible adult in the safety and security of their home.

Who can become a Supported Lodgings Host?

Supported Lodgings Hosts come from all walks of life and backgrounds. It does not matter if you are married, single or living as a couple and there are no restrictions based on your age, ethnicity, religious or sexual orientation.

Further information is given in the Supported Lodgings Leaflet.

The law dealing with homelessness is contained within Part VII of the Housing Act 1996. (As amended by the homelessness Act 2002)