Dave Lansley, 1968 - 2025

So sad to hear of Dave's passing. We've known each other since student days and campaigns from such a long time ago - and then again from Housing Rights. It was great that Dave was able to join the Council to lead on our new 'Enhanced Housing Options' approach - delivering a service that took a more holistic view in preventing homelessness - making referrals for money or debt advice or to support people accessing education or training, rather than just focusing on their homelessness presentation. It was quite an innovation at the time, and Dave and myself periodically had to trek up to London to update Government on how it was going. That role led naturally into Dave's next role in Welfare Reform, where he was also able to directly make a huge difference to people's lives for the better. In the Comms team, Dave was always spot on with press releases and campaigns - helping to present sometimes complex and nuanced issues in a way that was easy to understand. Dave's "Oxford Needs Homes" campaign with the site hoardings & signage was brilliant and will continue to live on at multiple new housing sites across Oxford. Quite a legacy - albeit way too short lived!