OXFORD Night Shelter has changed its name in a bid to end “negative connotations” associated with it.
From this week, the organisation will be known as Oxford Homeless Pathways.
Oxford Homeless Pathways runs O’Hanlon House, which is a 24-hour shelter offering beds, food, activities and training in Luther Street, and Julian Housing — a range of properties designed for people who have been homeless.
The service also runs the charitable wing of the Luther Street Medical Centre.
Chief executive Lesley Dewhurst said: “The term Night Shelter has negative and limiting connotations.
“It conjures up images of a shabby, overnight facility that only offers food, warmth and shelter.
“Our services are modern and professional, and bear no resemblance to this old-fashioned image, nor does it suggest the range of services we now offer.”
Each year about 350 people go through the doors of O’Hanlon House, and 100 people are helped by Julian Housing annually.
Many of the people helped by the organisation have problems with alcohol and other drugs or have mental health issues.
The new name was launched at an event at Oxford Spires Four Pillars Hotel, in Abingdon Road, on Monday.
A celebratory cake was cut by Oxford Lord Mayor Mary Clarkson.
For more information about the organisation, visit oxhop.org.uk
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