Council-run homeless day centre 'more than a drop-in'

A new day centre for homeless people and rough sleepers in a city is "much more than a drop-in centre", a councillor has said.

Preston City Council-run hub, at Oakham Court, is scheduled to begin phased services from Monday and will eventually offer essential casework, assessments, meals, laundry and shower services seven days a week.

Councillor Peter Kelly said the centre had "accommodation at its heart" and he wanted people to know "help is available".

Homeless charity the Foxton Centre closed its doors last week after 50 years in the city, although it will still be providing services out on the street.

The closure of the Foxton's day centre followed a review of homelessness services in Preston and the opening of a night shelter in 2025.

Kelly, cabinet member for housing, communities and night time economy at Preston City Council, said the new services had "accommodation at its heart" and it was "much more than a drop-in centre".

He told BBC Radio Lancashire that Oakham Court would connect people with the council's Rebuilding Lives Pathway, a series of steps to help people move from rough sleeping towards settled accommodation.

"We want people to know that help is available and that they can access the pathway and receive support tailored to their individual circumstances, helping them take positive steps towards a more secure and independent future," he added.

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