Studies into community led working are clear. Involving communities produces more trusted, useful and ethical public health action.
Banbury (Grimsbury, Ruscote, Neithrop)
What the community told us: There was a need for practical food skills and support with healthy eating.
What happened as a result: Community kitchens and cooking classes were started by local groups, with families sharing meals and learning new recipes together. Residents say they are more confident cooking healthy meals at home.
Central Oxford
What the community told us: People were worried about housing insecurity, homelessness, and finding affordable food.
What happened as a result: Community partners have co-ordinated targeted food support (pop-up larders and links to city food networks) and advice sessions (benefits, housing, debt). Signposting was strengthened through frontline partners and community venues, increasing uptake of food aid and advice pathways.
The community health development officer has also coordinated local health fairs that have strengthened community engagement with the local health services.
Oxfordshire libraries
Libraries are at the heart of local communities across the county, and the impact that reading and libraries have on wellbeing and life chances is well-documented. Beyond books and reading, libraries provide a raft of support, activities, and resources that help contribute towards positive health outcomes.
In 2025, the libraries team won a national award for its work on Making Every Contact Count (MECC).
Berinsfield
What the community told us: Families with children with SEND wanted more inclusive activities.
What happened as a result: Partners established a sensory room in the local nursery and ran inclusive family sessions (quiet hours, adapted activities). SEND families reported easier access to local support and activities that meet their needs.
A clear opportunity
Community health development officers have access to budgets which are used to deliver specific and targeted action in communities. Amber, in Blackbird Leys has seen a change in how she works with local communities who now see a commitment for change.
How data led to funding and support
Data from the community insight profiles have been used as evidence to support other forms of research, and local knowledge has been used across the county to secure funding and wider support.
Support for a local preschool
Grant funding has enabled a pre-school to get a sensory room that has benefited all the children.
Home Start Oxfordshire - supporting parents
Home Start Oxfordshire is a great example of how listening to the voices of individuals and communities works in practice. It helps families feel understood, builds confidence, and enables practical and emotional support that genuinely makes a difference.