New Partnership to Support Adults Facing Multiple Challenges

Published on: 18 Aug, 2026
Updated on: 18 Aug, 2026

A new Surrey-wide outreach service for adults in need will launch in September.

It brings together Oakleaf Enterprise, Catalyst Support and The Hope Hub to provide support for adults experiencing multiple disadvantages and challenges.

The five-year partnership has secured £594,977 funding to deliver community-based care focused on prevention, early intervention and crisis diversion.

The service is designed for adults experiencing two or more forms of multiple disadvantage – including mental ill-health, homelessness or housing insecurity, substance misuse, involvement with the criminal justice system, unemployment or financial hardship.

Through up to 24 weeks of one-to-one support, support workers will provide guidance and advocacy to help people navigate services, build resilience and move towards greater independence.

Following this, they will be supported to ensure a smooth transition into suitable next-step services, such as Oakleaf’s employment project, peer support groups, counselling and wellbeing programmes.

Clive Stone, chief executive of Oakleaf Enterprise, based in Walnut Tree Close, Guildford, said: “The need for earlier intervention has never been greater. At least 3,000 adults in Surrey are estimated to be experiencing multiple disadvantage, with research showing that 85% have experienced childhood trauma.

Mags Mercer, chief executive of The Hope Hub, based in Camberley added: “Our goal is to empower people to improve their life situation and move towards independence.”

Sue Murphy, chief executive of Catalyst Support, with its headquarters in Woking, said:
“This partnership represents exactly the kind of joined-up, community-based support that Surrey needs.

“Too often, people experiencing multiple disadvantage have to navigate complex systems at a time when they are least able to do so.

“By bringing the strengths of Catalyst Support, Oakleaf and The Hope Hub, we can reach people earlier, build trusted relationships and provide the practical and emotional support needed to prevent problems escalating into crisis.”