A new purpose-built activity centre designed to support adults living with serious mental illness and complex needs will open in Oxford next month, marking a significant step forward in community-based mental health care.
The facility, located at Scrutton Close in Headington and operated by Response – Oxfordshire’s largest independent mental health charity – will officially open to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week.
The centre aims to help residents transition towards independent living following discharge from intensive care services.
The new hub will offer a wide range of structured activities focused on supporting mental, emotional and social development. Planned sessions include art, music and craft workshops, cooking classes, budgeting support, independent living training, gardening, exercise and social gatherings.
These activities are designed to help residents build confidence, regain stability and develop practical skills that support long-term recovery.
The centre will complement existing provision at Scrutton Close, which includes 15 self-contained apartments, a communal garden and tailored support covering recovery planning, daily living skills and medication management.
The project has been made possible through a successful £20,000 grant application, alongside additional funding from G W Bartington Will Trust and a second major donor.
Emma Murphy, Associate Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at Response, highlighted the importance of the new facility in strengthening recovery outcomes.
“Scrutton Close plays a critical role in our team’s work to transform lives through tailored mental health care and housing support,” said Emma.
“It provides a safe, supportive, environment for those who are taking their first steps towards independent living after leaving 24-7 intensive care services.
“Cutting the ribbon on a new activity centre will mark a milestone moment for the site, and its ability to help residents foster both independence and strong connections so people can move forwards with their lives.
“Right now, many activities delivered at Scrutton happen in shared spaces – which are not always suitable for group engagement. This new centre will give residents a space of their own, and create a real sense of community which aligns to our role of helping people become the best version of themselves.”
Recent figures from Response show that only two per cent of residents in its care have been readmitted to hospital since February 2025, reflecting the effectiveness of its approach. The charity also plays a key role in reducing pressure on statutory services and preventing homelessness among vulnerable individuals.
“Positive mental health begins with secure housing,” Emma added.
“It is the foundation required for an individual to feel safe and in control of their life, regardless of the personal pressures they might be experiencing.
“The overwhelming majority of residents in our care reach a point where they can not only maintain their wellbeing in the community, but also fulfil a positive life and be part of society.
“Scrutton’s new activity centre will only strengthen our outcomes, and we look forward to cutting the ribbon next month.”
