NEW accommodation for the homeless in Oxford will open next month and help to tackle the city’s rough sleeping problem.

A2Dominion’s Matilda House, in Rymers Lane, Cowley, will provide specialised support and facilities for its residents.

The new centre will provide accommodation for 37 residents and is designed to meet their specific needs, giving them access to the support they need to go on to lead fulfilling lives.

Oxford Mail:

The housing provider’s support team will be in charge of services at Matilda House, helping residents with complex needs relating to issues such as mental health and disabilities.

Pam Vasir, A2Dominion’s director of Supported Housing, said: “Projects with a strong social purpose are at the heart of what A2Dominion does.

“We are committed to being a positive part of the local communities where we operate.

“We have been providing supported living in Oxford for many years, and a brand new, purpose-built facility will enable us to continue to do so for many years to come.

Oxford Mail:

“Matilda House will be vital in providing support to some of the most vulnerable people in Oxford, and we are delighted to be part of the delivery of this project.”

The accommodation forms a part of the city council’s strategy to tackle homelessness in the city.

Matilda House has been built to replace Simon House in Paradise Street, which is due to be demolished and it is understood Simon House residents will be transferred to Matilda House once it opens.

Linda Smith, the council's deputy leader and cabinet member for leisure and housing, said: “The council believes that nobody should have to sleep rough in Oxford, and Matilda House will be a key part of our efforts to help achieve our ambition.

Oxford Mail:

“Many of the most vulnerable people who have experienced homelessness find it hard to cope in bigger supported housing projects.

"Matilda House will provide a bespoke environment where homeless people with complex needs will initially have round-the-clock support, and separate yet connected move-on accommodation to help meet their changing needs as they move towards independent living.

"It takes more than a roof to end homelessness, and Matilda House will provide a holistic environment for people who have experienced homelessness to rebuild their lives.”

Oxford Mail:

Government funding of £790,000 for the Oxfordshire Trailblazer programme, which has kept more than 300 homeless people off the streets, is to end in September.

The problem of rough sleeping has increased in recent years and in November an estimate said there were 94 rough sleepers. City council leaders are working with homelessness agencies towards the goal of eradicating the need for people to sleep rough this winter.

Oxford Mail:

Work costing about £1m is taking place to convert a former job centre in Floyds Row into a hub for about 60 rough sleepers. It is expected to open in October.