West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is set to move forward with plans to recommission a key housing support service at Oasis House in Northampton, aimed at supporting individuals who have experienced rough sleeping or are at risk of homelessness.

Following approval at a Cabinet meeting, the council will begin a competitive procurement process to appoint a new Support Provider. The initiative is part of WNC’s broader strategy to address gaps in homelessness services by offering tailored, person-centred support to people with multiple and complex needs.

The new service, due to launch in October 2025, will be funded through the government’s Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant. This consolidated grant combines funding streams from the former Rough Sleeping Initiative (RSI) and the Accommodation for Ex-Offenders (AFEO) programme, and is provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

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Oasis House currently provides accommodation in 48 studio flats and 11 en-suite rooms. The recommissioned service will focus on helping residents sustain their tenancies, rebuild their lives, and transition into longer-term independent housing.

The future provider will work in close partnership with WNC, Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH), and other local agencies to deliver trauma-informed care. This includes support for mental health and substance misuse issues, as well as developing essential life and tenancy skills. The aim is to reduce repeat homelessness, improve health outcomes, and lessen reliance on emergency services.

This step follows a recent Cabinet decision to acquire the Oasis House building, securing its future as a central element of the council’s homelessness prevention strategy. Community engagement and consultations with service users and partner organisations are underway to ensure the new service is shaped around current and emerging needs.