Extra care housing: A lifeline for Rob and others in need

Rob Ilet’s journey from homelessness and alcohol dependency to stability and happiness began with a move into extra care housing.

After years of struggling with addiction and the devastating consequences it brought ‒ financial hardship, social isolation, and eventually homelessness ‒ Rob found himself at the Oxford Night Shelter. It was there that a chance conversation became a turning point.

Rob said: “Just one person said, ‘You need help.’ That was it. One lady said, ‘I know someone who knows someone.’ That’s all it took to turn things around.”

That connection led Rob to extra care housing. Designed to support older people and those with additional needs, extra care housing is a service commissioned by Oxfordshire County Council to help people live independently while receiving the support they need.

The service offers self-contained homes with care and support available on site when needed.

Having grown up in Aylesbury and spent time living in Ashford and London, Rob now calls Abingdon home. He describes the location as beautiful and enjoys a daily routine that includes early mornings, walks into town, coffee with friends, and reading by the river.

Extra care housing offers a unique balance of independence and reassurance. For Rob, that sense of belonging has been just as important as the practical support. He also praises the carers.

Rob said: “I’ve got lots of friends in other flats. There’s a real sense of community here.

“If I need help with something, the carers are there for me. They’re fantastic ‒ they give you space, but they’re always ready to step in when you need them.”

Rob is candid about the toll alcohol took on his life.

Rob said: “It ruined everything. You spend all your money and end up drunk somewhere. It’s a slippery slope.

“But I feel very grateful to have come out the other side. I don’t think about those things at all now. It’s the furthest thing from my mind.”

Oxfordshire County Council has supported the development of 1,140 extra care apartments across Oxfordshire.

Extra care housing works because of a strong partnership. Care staff are on site 24 hours a day, offering support and an emergency call service whenever residents need it.

The landlord, Sovereign Network Group, provides and maintains the accommodation and communal facilities – including gardens, an assisted bathroom for those with mobility issues, and even a commercial kitchen so residents can enjoy a professionally cooked lunch every day. The supported housing officer plays a vital role in helping residents settle in and maintain their tenancies successfully.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Rob’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference that the right support at the right time can make.

“Extra care housing offers people not just a place to live, but a place to thrive. It is about dignity, independence, and community – and Rob’s journey embodies all of that.”

Rob’s message to others who may be struggling and considering extra care housing is simple and heartfelt: “Go for it. Just do it. You won’t look back with any regrets. It’s a lifesaver. I was at breaking point, and this has saved my life. I haven’t been so happy and at ease for a very long time.”

Learn more about extra care housing and how it could support you or someone you care about.

Sign up to hear from us and receive the latest news and updates in our fortnightly newsletter, Your Oxfordshire.