Aspire Oxfordshire is proud to announce the introduction of a new project providing “move-on” support for individuals in supported accommodation to progress to independent living in the private rental sector, part-funded by Oxford City Council. 

From April to November 2024, this new project will support up to 30 single individuals aged 18+ who are currently living in supported accommodation - provided under the Oxfordshire Homelessness Alliance, or by Oxford City Council - who are ready to progress, to move on to living in the private rental sector or equivalent - led by returning Aspire team member Gregg!

These clients will be individuals with a local connection to Oxford City, with previous experience of homelessness in the city, or those who are well known to the city’s homelessness services, with lighter support needs. 

Working with a dedicated, specialist worker, piloting a ‘rent guarantor scheme’ and benefiting from a personalisation fund managed by charity partner Greater Change, these individuals will be supported to secure new independent accommodation, build connections with any other support services they may need to benefit their progression, and work to feel settled in their new spaces.

This will, in turn, help ‘free up’ and ensure improved access to supported accommodation for those most in need of this intensive support, such as individuals currently experiencing rough sleeping.

Paul Roberts, CEO of Aspire, said of the new project: “The private rental sector in Oxford City is incredibly difficult to access at the best of times, let alone if you have experienced homelessness. We’re introducing this additional support and trying new approaches to unlock much needed accommodation opportunities in Oxford city, to help people move on and rebuild their lives."

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