Social housing and regeneration expert Carolyn Wood has been appointed new Director of Programmes at Oasis Community Housing, overseeing all of the homelessness charity services.

Carolyn joins the charity’s Leadership Team from her own strategic consultancy business. With 16 years’ experience in the housing sector, from frontline roles to senior executive level, Carolyn has previously worked for Benwell Neighbourhood Management Initiative, Home Group and Auckland Home Solutions, a specialist supported housing provider.

Commenting on her appointment, Carolyn said, “I am absolutely delighted to join Oasis Community Housing and am looking forward to working with passionate and committed professionals who are driven to improve the lives of the most vulnerable adults in society.

“I am excited to be involved in influencing and shaping the services we offer as well as how we improve our provision of services throughout the UK.”

As Director of Programmes, Carolyn will oversee Oasis Community Housing’s homelessness charity services; its drop in centres, outreach, emergency accommodation, domestic abuse and employability projects that help over 1,000 people on their journey out of homelessness each year.

Based in Gateshead, Oasis Community Housing has services across North East England and South London with a strategic aim to expand its work across England.

Carolyn succeeds Phil Conn, who will move into a newly-created role as the charity’s Director of Chaplaincy.

Oasis Community Housing’s Chief Executive, David Smith, said, “We’re delighted to appoint Carolyn to this vital role at Oasis Community Housing, not least because she has a wealth of experience in enabling people facing crisis to find the right accommodation and support.  As we enter financially challenging times that are already pushing those who are struggling to the brink, Carolyn’s appointment will ensure we can continue to provide top quality support to those we serve.”