A new report from Oxfordshire Community Foundation (OCF) reveals the challenges many people face across Oxfordshire, despite the county’s reputation as one of the UK’s most prosperous and successful places.
Launched at OCF’s annual Funders’ Forum event at The Red Hall, Oxford North, Oxfordshire Uncovered brings together the latest data and local insight to explore the issues affecting communities across the county, from rising living costs and poor health to loneliness and unequal access to opportunity.
The report paints a picture of a county of contrasts. While Oxfordshire continues to benefit from economic growth, innovation and investment, many residents are struggling to afford everyday essentials, find secure housing or access the support they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Zoe Sprigings, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire Community Foundation, said:
“When people think about Oxfordshire, they often think about innovation, economic success and quality of life. Those strengths are important and worth celebrating. But the report also highlights the experiences of people whose lives are shaped by very different circumstances.
“At the same time, we see incredible work happening in communities across the county. Local charities and community groups are helping people overcome challenges, build connections and create opportunities. Oxfordshire Uncovered shows both the scale of need and the potential for positive change when communities are given the support they need.”
Four challenges shaping communities
Drawing on a wide range of research and evidence, the report identifies four connected challenges affecting communities across Oxfordshire:
- Unaffordable essentials, including housing, food and energy.
- Poor physical and mental health.
- Isolation, loneliness and social division.
- Barriers to opportunity and participation.
The report also highlights the important role that local charities and community groups play in helping people navigate these challenges. Rooted in their communities, they are often best placed to respond to local needs and create lasting change.
Why this matters
A key message from Oxfordshire Uncovered is that strong communities benefit everyone. When people have the support and opportunities they need to thrive, the benefits extend beyond individuals and families to the wider county.
As Oxfordshire continues to grow and evolve, OCF believes that investing in our communities is essential to ensuring that no-one in Oxfordshire is left behind.
Turning insight into action
For those who care about the place they live and work, building a stronger grassroots charity sector is an imperative in building a better society.
Professor Irene Tracey, CBE, FRS, FMedSci, Vice-Chancellor, University of Oxford, spoke of the report as being:
“A powerful call to action to ensure Oxfordshire’s success benefits all who call it home.”
Across Oxfordshire, businesses, charitable trusts, families and individual donors are already investing in stronger communities. OCF offers a variety of giving options to provide solutions for those wishing to do the same. Amazon has recently partnered with OCF to create a community benefit fund supporting charities in southern Oxfordshire, and Oxford PharmaGenesis has established a donor-advised fund to invest in stronger, healthier communities.
By investing in local people and local solutions, funders can play an important role in ensuring that Oxfordshire’s success is shared more widely.
Every day we are supporting grassroots charities in Oxfordshire to make small and meaningful changes for local people. Can you join us to help make a bigger difference?
To find out more about Oxfordshire Uncovered and how you can support the issues highlighted in the report, contact Kate Parrinder, Deputy CEO at Oxfordshire Community Foundation.
The full report is available at www.oxfordshire.org/uncovered
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