Each council will receive £100,000 as part of the £14 million initiative, delivered by Belong and funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales. This programme aims to help local authorities develop practical approaches to community cohesion and belonging.
The funding will build upon existing work, including the councils’ Be Together programme and the development of a new Community Cohesion Strategy. The investment will support local voluntary and community sector organisations and projects that foster relationships and build community resilience over the next five years.
Cllr Georgina Heritage, South Oxfordshire District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, highlighted the importance of connection and belonging, stating, “This funding is a significant opportunity for South Oxfordshire. It will help us invest directly in community projects that bring people together, support local organisations and create more opportunities for residents to participate in community life.” Residents are encouraged to help shape the future strategy by participating in a community survey.
Cllr Helen Pighills, Vale of White Horse District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, added, “We want the Vale to be a place where everyone feels welcomed, respected and connected to those around them. Through Common Ground, we will be able to strengthen the excellent work already taking place across the district and support new ideas that help people connect and thrive.”
Kelly Fowler, CEO at Belong, commented on the programme's aim to drive systemic change, stating, “Common Ground will help drive the systems change we know so so important to build confidence, resilience and pride in place.”
Residents can find more information and complete the survey at www.southandvale.gov.uk/APlaceForEveryone. The feedback gathered will inform the councils’ Community Cohesion Strategy for South Oxfordshire and the Vale.
