How residents, groups and organisations connect helps local areas feel part of something bigger - together their work shines a light on connections that make the local community vibrant and resilient.
Witney central
What the community told us: People felt isolated and struggled with transport.
What happened as a result: The steering group brought together representatives from West Oxfordshire District Council, Oxfordshire County Council Public Health, local community organisations and residents. The group reviewed findings from community surveys and focus groups, then co-designed action plans to collaboratively take local initiatives to address what the community had told us. Volunteer-led driver schemes have been supported to continue, and new community activities have been set up, some helping older residents get out more and feel less lonely. Community groups report increased participation and stronger local connections.
Bicester
What the community told us: Older people felt lonely and wanted more opportunities to socialise.
What happened as a result: Community organisations set up befriending schemes and walking groups, with membership doubling and participants reporting improved wellbeing and new friendships.
Community health development officers
We learnt from success elsewhere and adapted and expanded the community health development officer (CHDO) role to connect partners, support delivery and build local capacity.
These active roles have been pivotal in building trust and maintaining engagement in communities.
The Well Together Programme
The Well Together programme is funded by the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (BOB ICB). It empowers communities by building local capacity through grants and embedded roles to enable grassroots health activities.
The importance of evaluation
The community health development officer programme funded by Oxfordshire County Council and the NHS BOB ICB funded Well Together programme exemplify the commitment to delivering locally tailored initiatives that strengthen social connections and address the wider determinants of health. Evaluation provided insight into what works well and where further support is needed - meaning they can be strengthened further.