22-06-2025
City council team wins national award for work to prevent homelessness
An Oxford City Council team has won a national award for its work to prevent homelessness.
The housing needs team was crowned Housing Team of the Year at the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2025 on June 11.
The awards event, with more than 1,200 attendees and more than 100 judges, recognises the best in council achievements across the UK.
The housing needs team was recognised for its prevention efforts, its success in reducing rough sleeping, and its long-term focus on improving outcomes for people in temporary accommodation.
Oxford City Council's housing needs team at the Local Government Chronicle Awards 2025 (Image: Oxford City Council) It was also praised for its multi-pronged and data-driven strategy to prevent homelessness, its commitment to the Housing First approach, and its partnerships with health and other services across the county.
Councillor Linda Smith, cabinet member for housing, said: "I'm absolutely thrilled that our housing needs team has received this national recognition.
"Their commitment, creativity, and relentless focus on reducing homelessness in incredibly challenging circumstances is nothing short of inspirational.
Councillor Linda Smith (Image: Ed Nix) "This award is a testament to years of hard work, strong partnerships, and a shared belief that everyone deserves a safe and stable home. I could not be prouder of the team."
The Local Government Chronicle Awards included a rigorous judging process, with teams presenting their work to panels of senior local government leaders.
A spokesperson for the council said: "To win is a powerful endorsement of Oxford's approach to tackling homelessness and housing insecurity."
