Homeless funding under review

It is hoped the homeless will benefit from the review

A review into the support given to the homeless in Oxford has been launched by the city's housing bosses.

Council chiefs want to tap into the experience and expertise of charities and volunteer groups that support those living on the streets.

The 20 partner agencies that work with the council are being invited to take part in the review by its housing scrutiny committee.

The results will help the authority to decide how best to use the £600,000 it receives from the government each year to help the homeless.

A spokesman for Oxford Night Shelter said a change of focus in funding would benefit the city's homeless.

Local expertise

Scrutiny committee member councillor David Rundle said: "Providing support to homeless people is one of the most important areas of work for the council and we must ensure we are working effectively.

"In recent years, there have been significant changes in the way local and central government support rough sleepers.

"But it is the local charities and voluntary groups in Oxford that work with homeless people on a daily basis.

"We want to use their knowledge and expertise to ensure the council support services are appropriate."