Fabia Cerra never expected to end up running her own community support business when she started looking for work that fitted around caring for her autistic son, Leone.

With support from Community Catalysts, a programme funded by Oxfordshire County Council to help people set up small, local care and support services, Fabia has gone on to establish a community micro‑enterprise providing flexible support for people with learning disabilities, autistic people, older residents, and others who can feel isolated in their communities.

Through her service, Fabia supports people to live independently at home and stay connected in their communities. Her work includes helping with everyday tasks such as cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, shopping, and managing correspondence, as well as accompanying people to appointments, supporting travel on public transport, and enabling participation in hobbies and social activities. She also offers companionship, providing a reassuring presence for those who need it.

As Leone’s primary carer, Fabia, who lives in Oxford, wanted work that was both meaningful and flexible. With mentoring and guidance from Community Catalysts, she was able to turn her lived experience into a viable service and set up her enterprise in just a few months.

Fabia said: “I was inspired to start my micro‑enterprise as I’m my son’s primary carer. I was looking for a role that fitted in with my personal life, including my son, and this was ideal for using my experiences and knowledge of being an unpaid carer.”

More than two years on, she has an established customer base and continues to support people in her local area to improve their quality of life.

She adds: “The support from Community Catalysts has been brilliant.

“My mentor is always there if I need guidance or advice, and the Zoom meetings and private WhatsApp group are really helpful. I get to hear from other community micro‑enterprises and learn from their experiences.”

Fabia says the biggest impact comes from small, everyday changes: “I would like to think I’m helping people in my local community improve their quality of life. Making a small change in their day can make a huge difference to them.”

Rebekah Fletcher, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “By funding Community Catalysts, we are backing local people to build support that genuinely reflects the realities of their lives and communities.

“Fabia’s story shows how lived experience, with the right support, can be turned into something that benefits both families and the wider community.”

“Community‑led services like this complement wider adult social care provision and help people feel more connected, confident and supported close to home in line with The Oxfordshire Way.”

Fabia adds: “If you’d said to me two years ago that I’d be working for myself, I’d have just laughed it off.”

Fabia’s experience reflects the wider impact of the Community Catalysts programme across Oxfordshire, which has been working in Oxfordshire since 2020. The council funds the programme as part of its commitment to more personalised, community‑based approaches to care and support.

So far, the programme has delivered significant results across the county:

• In Cherwell, 89 community micro‑enterprises have completed the programme, together providing more than 4,000 hours of support and 118 activity sessions each week to over 2,000 people, while creating 150 jobs and 142 volunteering roles.
• In the Vale of White Horse, a further 37 micro‑enterprises have been supported since 2023, many offering activities for people with learning disabilities who previously had to travel much further to access support.

From 1 April 2026, Community Catalysts expanded into West Oxfordshire under a new two‑year contract extension, reflecting growing demand for local, flexible support, particularly in rural areas and among older residents.

Residents or community organisations interested in starting a micro‑enterprise, or exploring an idea, can contact Anita Wingad, Project Coordinator for Oxfordshire, directly or using the enquiry form on the Community Catalysts website.

Residents are also invited to attend free drop-in sessions at Chipping Norton Library, taking place on Tuesdays from 12pm to 1.30pm on 23 and 30 June and 7, 14 and 21 July, to speak with the local Community Catalysts coordinator and explore their ideas.

Existing CMEs in the county can be viewed on the Small Good Stuff directory.

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A group that provides opportunities for people with a wide range of learning and physical disabilities to experience the physical and social benefits of horse riding has received a special visit.

Councillor Mark Lygo, Chair of Oxfordshire County Council, last week (11 February) visited AIM RDA, the newest Riding for the Disabled Association group in Oxfordshire.

Founded in 2024 by a team of passionate volunteers, AIM RDA is the first new Riding for the Disabled Association group in several years and is already making a significant impact.

Benefits to members include improved balance, coordination, confidence, and wellbeing.

Oxfordshire County Council’s adult social care team works closely with local community organisations as part of the Oxfordshire Way – the council’s approach to helping people live well and independently within their communities.

By supporting initiatives that promote choice, independence and inclusion, we ensure that adults with learning disabilities can access activities that enrich their lives and reduce isolation.

Councillor Mark Lygo, Chair of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “It was inspiring to meet the volunteers and riders at AIM RDA and see the difference they are making firsthand.

“Watching the sessions in action really brought home how much confidence and joy these activities give to people.

“AIM RDA is not just about horse riding – it’s about creating a supportive community where everyone feels included, and I’m proud that Oxfordshire is leading the way in inclusive activities.”

Becci Hutchins, Co-Chair of AIM RDA, said: “We are always happy to share the fantastic work we do at Aim RDA, and it was great to welcome Mark to our sessions at Shrivenham Equestrian Centre.

“RDA provision is oversubscribed in most parts of the UK, so our mission to set up a thriving new group for the Oxfordshire area is incredibly important.

“Our name, “AIM”, stands for our ethos of “ability, independence, motivation” – all of which can be found in action in any of our inclusive riding sessions.”

AIM RDA accepts participants with a diagnosed disability from age eight, with no upper age limit – they welcome adults who are not always included in RDA provision. Riding sessions take place during evenings and weekends, and every application is assessed individually to ensure participants are placed in the most suitable session.

AIM RDA is currently welcoming applications from new riders. If you or someone you know could benefit from these sessions, please get in touch. Whether you’re looking for therapeutic riding at all levels for a broad scope of disabilities, or simply want to enjoy the companionship of horses as a volunteer, AIM RDA offers a safe, community-orientated environment.

AIM RDA has two locations: one in Shrivenham and another in Chilton Foliat.

For more information or to apply, visit: Join Us | AIM RDA.

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Lyn Lacey, a dedicated Oxfordshire carer for more than 27 years, was invited to meet Their Majesties The King and Queen at a reception at Windsor Castle yesterday (Wednesday 11 February 2026).

Now aged 77 and living in Banbury, Lyn has spent nearly three decades opening her home and her heart to support others.

The reception, hosted by the King and Queen, shone a light on carers and their contributions to health and social care in the United Kingdom.

Shared Lives is where an adult or young person needing support is matched with a carefully approved Shared Lives carer by their local scheme. That relationship creates a stable foundation, connections in their community and a sense of belonging.  

People typically supported by Shared Lives include those with learning disabilities, care leavers, people with dementia, and people who need short term support, such as during mental ill health or after a hospital stay.

Oxfordshire County Council funds and supports the Shared Lives scheme locally, working with Shared Lives Plus, a UK membership charity and national network that supports Shared Lives schemes, to ensure carers like Lyn have the resources and guidance they need to make a difference.

Lyn’s invitation follows recent recognition at the Shared Lives Plus Awards, where she and the people she supports were named Highly Commended in November 2025. Shared Lives Plus were so impressed by Lyn’s dedication that she was at the top of their list when considering who should attend the reception.

Lyn was accompanied by her Shared Lives Social Worker, Nikki Oleksiw. Her son, Adam Lacey – originally approved to support Lyn and now a Shared Lives carer in his own right for the past 20 years – was also in attendance, representing how the next generation is continuing the Shared Lives model.

Across 27 years and six months as a Shared Lives carer, Lyn has provided both short term and long term arrangements, and currently supports three young men who have lived with her for several years.

A qualified nurse, former care home manager, midwife and magistrate, Lyn brings compassion, structure and resilience to her role.

She treats those she supports as family, advocating with professionals, supporting day to day appointments and creating opportunities to live happy, fulfilling lives. That includes adventurous holidays such as trips to South Africa and Barbados that expand horizons, alongside encouragement to find employment and pursue personal goals.

Lyn said: “It’s a real honour to care for people with different needs and to provide compassion and stability in their lives. Shared Lives is a fantastic way to achieve this, and carers deserve recognition for the work they do.

“It’s a team effort with our social workers. Choices matter, and helping people take part in their community, enjoy work and have a sense of purpose is so important.

“There are challenges, but with great support we overcome them together. I hope the love and positivity we share will inspire others to join our amazing Shared Lives family.”

Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Lyn embodies the very best of Shared Lives: compassion and the belief that everyone should have the chance to thrive in their community.

“Her decades of dedication have changed lives, and it’s fantastic to see Oxfordshire’s carers recognised on the national stage.

“My heartfelt thanks to Lyn, Adam and all our Shared Lives families for the difference they make every day.”

Oxfordshire County Council is always looking to recruit more Shared Lives carers. Read more about Shared Lives and how you can get involved.

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People with learning disabilities will have a stronger voice than ever in shaping and improving the services and opportunities that help them live their best lives.

A new Deal has been struck between Oxfordshire County Council and My Life My Choice (MLMC), an organisation that supports people with learning disabilities to have their say.

The Deal, developed by MLMC’s campaign champions, a group of learning-disabled activists, builds on work already underway across the county.

It strengthens the council’s commitment to working alongside people with lived experience to improve the support, opportunities and communities that matter most to them.

The Deal sets out three core pledges:

1.     Improving social care support and workforce awareness.

2.     Strengthening routes into education, training, volunteering and employment.

3.     Ensuring access to well‑connected, inclusive communities.

These pledges build on years of co‑production and co-design between MLMC, the council and local partners, and aligns closely with the Oxfordshire Learning Disability Plan 2025 - 2035.

Campaign champions and MLMC members will continue to play a key role in delivering the Deal by sharing their lived experience and demonstrating what good support, meaningful work and inclusive environments look like in practice.

Anup Upadhyaya, My Life My Choice Trustee (2024/25) and Campaign Champion, said: “This is about making sure we get a better life.”

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “We are proud to be working so closely with My Life My Choice and their campaign champions.

“Their insight and advocacy ensures that the voices of learning disabled people are not only heard but embedded in the decisions we make.

“By signing this Deal, we are strengthening our commitment to co‑production and co-design and to delivering the right support, the right opportunities and the right environments for people to thrive.”

Progress will be monitored through the county’s Learning Disability Improvement Board, co‑chaired by Dawn Wiltshire, who brings lived experience to the role.

You can read more about My Life My Choice and explore their work, campaigns and resources by visiting their website.

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After years of struggling with addiction and the devastating consequences it brought ‒ financial hardship, social isolation, and eventually homelessness ‒ Rob found himself at the Oxford Night Shelter. It was there that a chance conversation became a turning point.

Rob said: “Just one person said, ‘You need help.’ That was it. One lady said, ‘I know someone who knows someone.’ That’s all it took to turn things around.”

That connection led Rob to extra care housing. Designed to support older people and those with additional needs, extra care housing is a service commissioned by Oxfordshire County Council to help people live independently while receiving the support they need.

The service offers self-contained homes with care and support available on site when needed.

Having grown up in Aylesbury and spent time living in Ashford and London, Rob now calls Abingdon home. He describes the location as beautiful and enjoys a daily routine that includes early mornings, walks into town, coffee with friends, and reading by the river.

Extra care housing offers a unique balance of independence and reassurance. For Rob, that sense of belonging has been just as important as the practical support. He also praises the carers.

Rob said: “I’ve got lots of friends in other flats. There’s a real sense of community here.

“If I need help with something, the carers are there for me. They’re fantastic ‒ they give you space, but they’re always ready to step in when you need them.”

Rob is candid about the toll alcohol took on his life.

Rob said: “It ruined everything. You spend all your money and end up drunk somewhere. It’s a slippery slope.

“But I feel very grateful to have come out the other side. I don’t think about those things at all now. It’s the furthest thing from my mind.”

Oxfordshire County Council has supported the development of 1,140 extra care apartments across Oxfordshire.

Extra care housing works because of a strong partnership. Care staff are on site 24 hours a day, offering support and an emergency call service whenever residents need it.

The landlord, Sovereign Network Group, provides and maintains the accommodation and communal facilities – including gardens, an assisted bathroom for those with mobility issues, and even a commercial kitchen so residents can enjoy a professionally cooked lunch every day. The supported housing officer plays a vital role in helping residents settle in and maintain their tenancies successfully.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Rob’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference that the right support at the right time can make.

“Extra care housing offers people not just a place to live, but a place to thrive. It is about dignity, independence, and community – and Rob’s journey embodies all of that.”

Rob’s message to others who may be struggling and considering extra care housing is simple and heartfelt: “Go for it. Just do it. You won’t look back with any regrets. It’s a lifesaver. I was at breaking point, and this has saved my life. I haven’t been so happy and at ease for a very long time.”

Learn more about extra care housing and how it could support you or someone you care about.

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Falls are one of the leading causes of injury for older adults. South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) reports around 3,000 falls and frailty-related 999 calls every month. Falls among people aged 65 and over are estimated to cost the NHS more than £2.3 billion annually.

The good news is that many falls can be prevented through simple steps such as strength and balance exercises, home safety checks, and regular health reviews.

Running throughout winter and into spring, the campaign will share practical advice and signpost residents to local support services, including:

• Age UK Oxfordshire’s exercise and information programme, Stay Strong and Steady
• Active Oxfordshire’s Move Together initiative - a county-wide programme designed to help people, especially those with long-term health conditions, disabilities, or who are inactive, become more physically active and improve their wellbeing.
• Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust’s Falls Prevention Service - offers a one-off multifactorial assessment to create a personalised risk management plan for reducing falls
• Home Improvement Agencies - help older, disabled, and vulnerable residents live safely and independently in their own homes. Grants and practical advice are available to help clients with repairing, maintaining or adapting their home:
• Oxford City Council
• Cherwell District Council
• South & Vale District Council
• West Oxfordshire District Council

Activities throughout the campaign will include community events, social media updates, leaflet drops at GP surgeries, and partnerships with local organisations.

This initiative is part of a broader, county-wide programme of work to prevent falls, reduce falls-related hospital admissions and promote independence. This programme is supported by local partners including Age UK Oxfordshire, district councils, Active Oxfordshire, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers, and Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (BOB ICB).

Cold weather brings additional hazards that can increase the risk of falls. Ice, snow, and wet surfaces make pavements and outdoor areas slippery, while shorter daylight hours can reduce visibility.

Residents are encouraged to take extra care when out and about, wear appropriate footwear with good grip, and allow extra time for journeys. Simple precautions, like clearing paths, using handrails, and planning routes, can make a big difference in staying safe during winter.

Cold indoor temperatures can also exacerbate arthritic symptoms, reducing strength and dexterity. This decline in physical function increases susceptibility to falls.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “A fall can have a devastating impact on someone’s life, but the good news is that most falls are preventable.

“By making small changes, like improving home safety and staying active, we can help people remain confident, independent, and safe. This campaign is about giving residents the tools and support they need to live well and reduce the risk of falls.

“But it’s not just about to ways to improve stability when individuals are already frail, it is about creating a society where people are able to live active lives, so they enter older age fit and healthy.

“This is why, as Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, I have very keenly supported active travel and public transport initiatives, and why, at a district level, I advocate strongly for better place making in new housing schemes. Only by encouraging active healthy lives can we prevent or lessen falls in old age.”

Paul Ringer, CEO at Age UK Oxfordshire said: “Falls can happen to anyone, and winter brings extra risks with slippery conditions and shorter daylight hours.

“But together, we can change that. Our goal is simple: to help people feel safe, confident and connected in their homes and communities. By sharing practical advice and working in partnership, we can reduce falls, support healthy ageing, and protect independence.

“This isn’t just about preventing accidents – it’s about giving people real choice and control over their lives, while easing pressure on vital services across Oxfordshire."

Residents and carers can find advice and resources on the Live Well Oxfordshire website, including exercise guides, home safety tips, and details of local classes.

For more information, please visit the Live Well Oxfordshire website.

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Dean Farrell, who also serves as Witney CSS’s climate action champion, is participating in the eight week programme alongside students from across the globe. The course explores cutting-edge climate science and includes a group project component.

He hopes to focus his main project on Oxfordshire County Council’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

Dean’s journey began with carbon literacy training. The council offers the nationally recognised carbon literacy training to any interested staff to support all non-environmental professionals with understanding of how their role can support meeting climate action targets.

This training sparked a deeper interest in climate action for Dean. Encouraged by his team leader, Selina Crozier, Dean applied for the Oxford course, and, despite initial doubts, was thrilled to be accepted.

Now two weeks into the programme, Dean describes the experience as intellectually challenging and deeply rewarding.

Dean said: “This opportunity means a great deal to me. It’s not just about learning, it’s about proving to myself that I belong in this space. I’m proud to be part of something that could make a real difference.”

Dean plans to share his learning with colleagues and the people supported at community support services across the county through presentations, newsletter articles and social media updates. His goal is to make climate science accessible and relevant to local communities, while highlighting the council’s sustainability efforts.

Selina, Team Leader in Oxfordshire County Council’s Adult Social Care team, said: “Dean is living our organisational values ‒ showing ambition, responsibility, and a real drive to make a difference. We’re incredibly proud of him.”

Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Dean’s achievement is a fantastic example of how individual ambition aligns with our wider organisational goals. His commitment to climate action reflects Oxfordshire County Council’s determination to reach carbon neutrality by 2030 and embed sustainability into everything we do.

“By sharing his learning with colleagues and local communities, Dean is helping to turn strategy into action and inspire others to play their part in creating a greener future.”

Dean’s story is a powerful example of personal growth, community leadership, and the council’s wider commitment to climate action.

Learn more about Witney Community Support Service, and the activities and services it provides to help people stay healthy and independent.

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The CQC praised Oxfordshire’s collaborative approach, highlighting the Oxfordshire Way, which puts partnership with the NHS, local care providers and the voluntary and community sector at the heart of system change.

The council’s joint commissioning with health through one of the largest pooled budgets in the country was recognised as a model of effective integration and prevention.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “This achievement is a shared success. It belongs to every care worker, NHS colleague, voluntary group and community partner who plays their part in supporting Oxfordshire residents. By working together, we’ve shown that integrated care isn’t just a policy ambition it makes a real difference to people’s lives.

“I want to thank every partner across the system for their dedication and teamwork.”

The report noted: “Oxfordshire County Council demonstrated strong strategic partnership working, particularly in facilitating the improved process of hospital discharge and supporting people to stay in their own homes.”

Examples of this partnership in action include:

• Hospital discharge teams working seamlessly with NHS colleagues, helping Oxfordshire achieve one of the lowest delays in the region.
• Reablement services redesigned with health partners, supporting 75 per cent of people to regain independence after short-term care.
• Voluntary and community sector collaboration, including local area coordinators and community connectors, keeping people well and independent for longer.

The council remains committed to working in partnership with care providers, the voluntary and community sector, residents, their families and carers.

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 Tom, who has a learning disability and severe anxiety, wasn’t seeing his needs met through traditional social care avenues such as day services and respite care.

As a result, the adult social care team at Oxfordshire County Council applied themselves to finding new ways to help Tom, and his family find the right package of care, he is now flourishing with the support of his carers.

Tom’s social worker linked him up with direct payments, which offer those who need  the flexibility to arrange their own care and support the help and guidance of a professional. This could include community-based help or care and support in the home.

Since having the support of his carers, 30-year-old Tom, from Rowstock near Didcot, has come out of his shell, living a busy, happy life. He now loves playing golf, cycling, developing his artistic skills (he particularly enjoys painting landscapes), and going to the cafe with his friends. He has even completed a project about local churches.

He said: “My new carers, Jen and Carly, are very helpful and kind, and I have done lots of things with them already.

“I am very happy because I have now got Lizzie, Jen and Carly to look after me.”

Tom’s mum Mandy is absolutely delighted to see her son flourish with the support of his new carers. She said: “I always think it is lovely to see how his personal budget is allowing him to blossom and develop. He's a very lucky man to have such a wonderful team of personal assistants supporting him. None of this would've been possible without the invaluable support of the adult social care team."

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “It’s great news to hear that Tom is now prospering with the support of his brilliant team of carers.

“This is a great example of how Direct Payments can transform a person's life - giving them the flexibility to decide and arrange their own care and helping them to live the life they want to lead.

“All people have different needs and circumstances and as such we can’t deploy a one size fits all approach to those in the county council’s care. We use our intelligence and imagination to come up with solutions that suit individuals and Tom is a prime example of how that works in practice.”

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Established in Oxfordshire in June last year, Home First has been set up by Oxfordshire County Council, Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, Age UK, Oxford University Hospitals and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trusts.

Retired Norman, who is in his eighties and from Witney had a five-week-long stay in hospital before being supported home by Home First. He’d been unwell for some time before he was admitted to hospital, and things were becoming difficult for him and Chris on a daily basis.

Norman and Chris have a large family and have led an independent life up to this point, so the thought of needing help was daunting for them. Norman explained: “I was dubious at the beginning about having carers and people coming into my home, but now I am so grateful to them and am very happy with how far they have helped me come.”

When he was first discharged home, he needed support from two reablement support workers four times a day.

One of those who supported him was one of Home First’s occupational therapists Jo, who worked with Norman and Chris from day one at home. She helped to establish what was important to Norman and how this level of support could be stepped down as his independence and strength increased.

Norman had two key goals he wanted to achieve as he recovered from his long hospital stay: getting out and about in the local community again on his mobility scooter, and getting back upstairs into his own bed which would help both him and his wife.

It was clear that with the support of Home First’s reablement workers, he was quickly starting to make real progress with his mobility, and he was soon able to reduce the level of support he needed to one carer providing support four times a day

Norman, Chris and the Home First team were then able to turn their attention to his wish to be able to sleep upstairs again. On top of his existing stairlift Jo was able to make a number of small changes such as fitting in rails to help Norman further regain his strength.

Just three weeks later, Norman and Chris no longer need Home First. Chris said: “I was so pleased that the carers came in to help him when he came out of hospital. He has made so much progress and today he has gone out on his scooter to vote!”

Norman is absolutely delighted with the care he received, commenting: “They did everything they could do and more.

“I’m extremely grateful for them, they did a wonderful job and now I can get out on my scooter, go to Marks and Spencer and buy some nice food".

Sally Steele, System Lead for Home First at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Home First supports people to return to their own home as soon as possible to recover following a hospital stay.

“This recovery is supported by a range of professionals who will work with people to encourage and enable independent living wherever possible. Working in this collaborative way allows us to meet the needs of people in a more creative and personalised way, focussing on what matters to that individual in terms of their needs.”

Sarah Hamblin, Allied Health Professions Clinical Lead Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Working together with our system partners in such a positive way has ensured that our patients return home to their community with the level of support and rehabilitation that they require.

“We have all brought our skills and knowledge to the partnership to deliver a service that works to develop goals with our patients to ensure that they can recover at home while re-building the skills and confidence they, their families and carers need to manage at home as independently as possible.”

Sam Foster, Chief Nursing Officer at Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is just one example of how Home First can make a different to our patients.

“By working with our colleagues across the health and social care system, we can help our patients receive the right care, in the right place. Once hospital care is complete, many people want to be back home as soon as possible, which is completely understandable – and this approach continues their care at home and helps build their independence.”

Oxfordshire’s Director of Adult Social Care, Stephen Chandler, will be a leading face for social care nationally as he takes up the role of president of national social care charity, the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS).

The position, which is held for one year, heads up the charity’s board of trustees, which in turn represents current and former directors of adult social services, and other senior staff across England.

Stephen was handed the baton from James Bullion, Director of Adult Social Care at Norfolk County Council, on 28 April 2021. In his inaugural speech, Stephen said: “For me it is a great privilege to become ADASS president, and one I look forward to with equal fear and excitement.”

Yvonne Rees, Oxfordshire County Council’s Chief Executive, commented: “This is an amazing achievement for both Stephen and our council as it gives us an opportunity to showcase some of the fantastic work we have been doing locally. I wish Stephen well in this high-profile national role.”

Stephen joined Oxfordshire County Council back in September 2019. Having started his career as a mental health nurse, he worked for the first half of his career in several NHS roles including board level positions.

Following a period as a joint commissioner, he has spent the past 16 years within local government in several assistant director and director of adult services positions.

He had also been the Association of Directors of Social Services (ADASS) national policy lead for mental health since 2014, and vice president.

More information

• Read Stephen Chandler’s inaugural ADASS speech in full on the ADASS website: https://www.adass.org.uk/press-release-new-president-speech
• The Association of Directors of Adults Social Services is a charity. Its members are current and former directors of adult care or social services and their senior staff. Its objectives include:
  • Furthering comprehensive, equitable, social policies and plans, which reflect and shape the economic and social environment of the time;
  • Furthering the interests of those who need social care services regardless of their backgrounds and status;
  • Promoting high standards of social care services.

Didcot-resident Joe Nicholls is celebrating nine years in employment at County Print Finishers thanks to the help and support of Oxfordshire Employment.

Joe, is one of the many individuals who have benefitted over the years from the Oxfordshire Employment service, run by Oxfordshire County Council to support individuals with social care needs to find and stay in work. He is now calling on others who might benefit from the service to give it a go.

Joe, a 40-year-old father of two, first came to Oxfordshire Employment nearly a decade ago following a referral by JobCentre Plus, joining the team at County Print Finishers with the hope of gaining the skills to secure external employment.

Joe commented: “I’d struggled a lot in the past with my mental health, and so found it difficult to find a job that I would really suit me. I was referred to Oxfordshire Employment, who supported me in finding this job and, honestly, I’ve never looked back.”

He has always been very open about his own challenges with his mental health and the difference that being in stable employment makes. As a result, his passion and unique insight into the needs of someone who has dealt with mental health needs allowed him to flourish and secure in a permanent role with the team as a Support Worker – helping others in the shoes he once found himself in.

Joe continued: “I know from my own experiences how important work is and the benefits that it brings to people. If it wasn’t for the help that I’ve been given by County Print, I might never have stayed in work. Now I have a stable job that I love, and I can make a real difference to other people’s lives every day.

“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the additional challenges that it’s brought with it, being able to stay in work and provide support to others has been even more important to me. I am so grateful for what the service has given me. It is a really great opportunity and I would definitely encourage others to follow the same route as me.”

County Print, a Supported Business, is celebrating 75 years of employment support in 2021. Starting in 1946 as Oxford’s Blind and Handicapped workshop, it is now part of Oxfordshire Employment and provides real-world work support to individuals with social care needs to find and stay in work with new employers.

Councillor Lawrie Stratford, Oxfordshire County Council’s lead member for adult social care said: “Joe’s unique understanding and empathy make him a great support worker and mental health first aider is a real asset to the council’s adult social care service. His journey has been truly inspiring, and he’s made a real difference to the lives of so many. I hope that by telling his story it inspires others to take the plunge.

“I am delighted that County Print has been able to provide support to those that need it, while providing a great service to businesses, for 75 years. I hope there are still many more years to come.”

Find out more about County Print Finishers and their work on the County Print Finishers website.

Learn more about Oxfordshire Employment, and how it might be able to support you by going to the Oxfordshire County Council website.

More Information

• County Print Finishers, part of Oxfordshire Employment, is operated by Oxfordshire County Council and provides a range of ISO 9001 quality assured services to the printing and data destruction industry.
• County Print Finishers is a Disability Confident Leader.

Dennis, who is 56 and hails from West Hagbourne, had spent a long period of time out of work before joining the County Print Finishers contract support team back in 2018.

County Print Finishers, is part of Oxfordshire Employment, a council service that helps to support people with long term health issues or a disability to keep paid employment. As well as helping people directly into jobs with a range of employers, the service offers paid work placements with County Print Finishers, which it operates, to help develop work skills and experience to prepare people for external employment.

After struggling to find a job that would allow him to thrive, Dennis, was first referred to Oxfordshire Employment by Job Centre Plus to get help in finding work that would also support his mental health. As a result, he was then able to find a role in data entry and file maintenance with County Print Finishers.

Since joining, he has become a critical member of the County Print Finishers team and has excelled in an environment where he has received additional support for his mental health and wellbeing. His experiences of the workplace, the specialist support on offer and the feeling of wellbeing that work brings are things he sees as central to his improving health.

The printers has remained open all throughout the pandemic, and even helped to deliver PPE to distribution centres around the county, ensuring supplies were maintained for social carers.

Although the arrival of the pandemic back in March meant Dennis had to move to working from home, strong COVID-19 security measures on site and the sheer volume of work meant that he could soon return to the Oxford-based office and back to working with his colleagues again.

Dennis said: “Being at work has been vital to my mental health, having something important to do and being able to see colleagues – social distanced of course – along with the support on offer from County Print Finishers, has enabled me to stay well throughout the pandemic. At the same time, I have been doing something worthwhile by getting PPE to those who really need it. I am so glad I’ve been able to do this, and I would really encourage anybody else who might be in the same boat I was to do the same – do it, it’s never too late!”

Will Gardner, Oxfordshire Employment Team Manager, said: “Dennis has been an absolute delight to have on the team. His work has been key to the County Print Finishers contract management and I’m glad we have been able to find him something that has allowed him to thrive in the workplace. It is never too late to achieve your goals!”

Councillor Lawrie Stratford, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health, added: “It’s a fantastic achievement for Dennis, who has become a key member of our County Print Finishers service. We’re really proud of our employment service and the success it has with supporting people into work. Having a job can often provide people with so much more than just an income; it provides many of us with a sense of identity and purpose.

The county council's vision is to create opportunities to ensure all people, our communities as well as the local economy, flourish. This initiative and its results show positive outcomes in all areas.

“It is a privilege to hear Dennis’ story and I would echo his encouragement to others to make contact with our service if they’re interested in being supported into work.”

For more information on Oxfordshire Employment visit the council’s website.

In partnership with Buckinghamshire New University, the scheme gives individuals already working within a social work setting the opportunity to gain the skills and values that are needed to become qualified social workers in a practical environment.

Melanie Pearce, Principal Social Worker in Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, explained: “Oxfordshire is one of a number of trailblazing organisations offering a new apprenticeship route into social work. These new apprentices will achieve a degree in social work whilst gaining essential on-the-job experience to develop the knowledge and skills required to be able to practice as social workers following their graduation.

“This is an exciting development, offering a route into practice that combines the best of real-life experience with the academic rigour of a university degree. We are pleased to have recruited some talented new apprentices within adult social care in partnership with Buckinghamshire New University who will be starting on their apprenticeship journeys in their new roles this month.”

Here some of the council’s first cohort of apprentices have been talking about their experiences, and what has led them to the scheme.

Meet Nicola

Nicola Wheat, 26, from Cowley works in the Learning Disability Community Connections Team in adult social care.

In May 2019 she moved to the Learning Disabilities Team, a county wide multi-agency role working predominantly with people living with a learning disability/autism. After being offered the social work apprenticeship Nicola will be returning to the Adult Social Care City Team.

Her apprenticeship allows her to continue in her role as a Social Work Coordinator, while also studying for her degree in social work.

“I feel like different events over the past few years have in themselves been signposting me in the direction of pursuing social work further. In studying the degree in social work I will gain a greater understanding of social problems, their causes, their solutions and the impacts these have while allowing me to obtain the skills I require to be successful in my chosen career path.” Nicola said.

“I am inspired by this quote by Sterling Woods, there is nothing more rewarding and satisfying than helping a client solve a problem or supporting them through a hard time in their life."

Meet Natt

Natt Webb is 33 years old and part of the Vale social care team.

Natt first started working in social care as an administrator, working closely with both social workers and occupational therapists in the team.

“Working with the social workers and occupational therapists, I found their work really interesting and rewarding. I was encouraged to apply for the Coordinator role after a year of admin work and have been in post for five years now” said Natt.

“There has been a lot of hard work and learning over these five years, and I owe a lot of thanks to those that have taken time out of their day to support me and help me learn along the way.

“I have developed a passion and interest for social work through my coordinator role and now want to progress my career to the next level.

“I applied for the apprenticeship with support from my team and was successful this year getting on to the course. I am really excited about the next three years and looking forward to the new challenges ahead.”

Natt and Nicola are part of the first cohort of social work apprentices with the council, alongside three apprentices who are working within children’s social care.

Melanie continued: “We are immensely proud of our home-grown apprentices. Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for everybody of all ages, and from all backgrounds, to retrain and enter a highly rewarding career in social care.

“Our scheme offers everyone flexibility to continue in their current role, while working towards the qualification – so is a great opportunity for anybody who might be interested in social work.

More information

Find out more about the social work apprenticeship scheme here.

Read more about apprenticeships at Oxfordshire County Council here.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Adult Social Care, Stephen Chandler, has paid tribute to Oxfordshire residents for their generous efforts in helping to support those who needed it the most throughout the county during lockdown.

More than 15,000 of people stepped up to offer support to those who needed it most across the county during lockdown in many ways, from delivering prescriptions and groceries to those shielding or in financial difficulty, to providing support online or on the phone.

Stephen Chandler said: “We should pay credit to our community resilience across Oxfordshire during these difficult times. As we head into the winter months, which we know will bring about more challenges, let's not lose this momentum. Let’s make ‘taking care of each other’ our new way of being beyond the pandemic.”

“Volunteers come many different backgrounds, from individuals helping neighbours or relatives, to more large-scale organised groups, but we would not have been able to do any of this without everyone pulling together as one. It is thanks to the generosity and resilience of all of us that we have been able to support residents in so many ways, from providing them with care and support, to ensuring that they receive medication and groceries, have dogs walked, or just a friendly chat when needed.”

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of everyone, including voluntary groups, public services, businesses, and charities, so many Oxfordshire residents seen a real difference during a particularly difficult time. Here are some of those stories.

Emily’s story

Emily* is one of those vulnerable people who was helped by the army of volunteers and organisations. Back in May had been shielding due to illness, and subsequently found herself in hardship with Covid-19 symptoms.

Emily contacted South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Council’s Community Support Hub to request help with shopping and medicine, and to receive a friendly call in this difficult time. To assist her, the Hub worked in partnership with two local support groups, Farringdon Viral Kindness and The Place, and with the local food bank.

Council staff began delivering regular food parcels, while local groups arranged collections and deliveries of medicine, and provided Emily with a fridge-freezer and a bed. She has also been receiving weekly calls from volunteers, whom have sent her useful information and contacts to help her manage housing and finances.

Emily could not be more thankful to all the agencies that have been helping her and her family during the Covid-19 emergency, and was keen to relay her appreciation for everyone’s hard work;

Joseph’s Story

Joseph* was referred has been referred to South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Council’s Community Support Hub’s helpline by his son as he speaks very little English.

Joseph’s son was helping his dad with food shopping, but he could not help him any longer, leaving Joseph in urgent need of food. The Community Support Hub’s contact centre tried to get in contact with him to help but had been struggling as he was not confident speaking over the phone.

However, North Hinksey Parish Council were able to send over a volunteer to his home to check on him, and the volunteer could then speak over the phone with Joseph’s son and arrange for support.

As a result, staff working at the Hub delivered an urgent food parcel to Joseph, while North Hinksey Parish Council were able to support him with food deliveries in the long-term.

*Names have been changed

Her placement is part of the wider 18-month Careers in Care project delivered by Oxfordshire County Council’s Oxfordshire Employment and Style Acre. It aims to support both people with a learning disability and those with wider health and disability needs to develop skills, and to find work within the Oxfordshire social care sector

Vicky, who is in her early thirties and from Wantage first joined the programme in July 2019 after expressing an interest in learning how to support others with learning disabilities.

Bubbly Vicky wanted to learn the right way to support someone with a variety of complex special needs and help in their development.

After many false starts looking for work and developing skills, she wanted something that would allow her to overcome her own mild disabilities and a flexible role in which she could learn at her own pace and gain confidence In the past she has experience of care but no formal qualifications, just a willingness to learn and adapt.

The programme brings together Oxfordshire Employment’s expertise in job coaching and supporting successful employment outcomes together with Style Acre’s ability to deliver bespoke work experience, learning and development within its own social care services and social enterprises.

In her time at placement, Vicky has learnt how to support others, she has almost completed her Level 1 Support Worker online training; and has completed a Level 2 in food safety.

She is now looking into government funded courses in health and social care to assist her with a qualification alongside her support role and is hopeful that her current placement will lead to paid work.

Sarah, project co-ordinator at Style Acre said:

“Vicky has an excellent rapport with the service users and is greatly missed by everyone when she takes some holiday time off she has learnt a great deal on programme and is always keen to learn more.”

The Careers in Care programme has been extended to 31 March 2021 to deliver more support opportunities.

Chris Ingram, Chief Executive at Style Acre said:

“Wellbeing seems to be a trendy word at the moment, but it has been a fundamental part of what we have focused on at Style Acre for a number of years. There is a lot of evidence to show how important a job can be for people’s wellbeing, which is why our work programme has become such an important focus for Style Acre.

“People with learning and other disabilities are hugely disadvantaged in the employment market and very few work within social care which is why this project done in collaboration with Oxfordshire Employment has been so important to us.

“The fact that we have been able to link it with our other enterprises like the garden project at Wantage has been a real benefit to everyone. The project has been a huge success and I would like to thank everyone at Style Acre, Oxfordshire Employment and our partners who have been part of the journey so far.”

Will Gardner, team manager at Oxfordshire Employment said:

“I’m delighted that the in-depth support provided has helped Vicky find a role that adds value for her and brings her superb skills into the sector. This is about bringing people closer to work, whether volunteering or through employment, but I’m confident that Vicky can join others we have supported through Careers in Care and gain paid employment”

“I am also delighted that we’ve been able to extend this project by another six months so that we can deliver even more opportunities to people across the county.”

More information

Find out more about the work of Oxfordshire Employment here.

Find out more about Style Acre and the work that they do across Oxfordshire here.

In support of the “Because we all care”, a new campaign from the Care Quality Commission and Healthwatch England, we are calling everybody to do their part to help shape the feature of our social care services.

The new campaign comes at a time where challenging circumstances have highlighted the work and contributions of adult social care staff and with more people receiving care and support than ever before.

Research from the CQC and Healthwatch has determined that nearly two thirds of us are more grateful for the services they receive and would be more willing to support their local social care services on the back of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Stephen Chandler, director of adult social care and housing at Oxfordshire County Council, said:

“We are delighted to support this campaign from the CQC and Healthwatch. Many of us may feel apprehensive about trying to get involved at present. But whether your experiences are good or bad, we appreciate any feedback.

“These are unprecedented times for adult social care. It is through feedback directly to us, or from our partner organisations such as Healthwatch, that residents can help us to improve and shape our services.”

Eddy McDowall, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers (OACP) said:

“Whilst we are living through unprecedented times, the increased appreciation of social care providers and their staff has demonstrated that care is invaluable to all communities across Oxfordshire.

“Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers encourages clients and residents using social care, as well as staff, to describe and voice the fabulous work that keeps people safe, as well as sharing what is not working so we can improve it.”

More Information

More information about the national campaign is available here. Residents can find our more about how to have their say about services via our website.

While large numbers of Oxfordshire County Council staff work from home in line with the Government’s guidelines, key worker teams, care providers and personal assistants go above and beyond the call of duty to deliver essential and flexible services across the county.

The business continuity plans have ensured that the adult services team continue to provide ‘business as usual’ support to residents who can continue to live independently and comfortably at home.

Across adult social care for Oxfordshire, 850 hours of home care has been organised in the past two weeks to support residents at home, above average for this time of the year.

The Hospital Teams have supported over 250 people to be discharged from hospital in the last two weeks which supports the system to ensure there is required capacity for medical treatment.

The Council has an Approved Mental Health Professional Team who have maintained the level of service at this challenging time and have carried out 23[1] Mental Health Act assessments and are continuing to work closely with partner agencies.

Other proactive tasks for people to receive support include social workers remotely assessing and coordinating care reviews using online technology to provide support and answer questions.

Stephen Chandler, the Director for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council said: “We work with inspirational and dedicated professionals and I would like to express my sincere personal thanks on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council for all that you are doing. Our teams of social workers, care providers, personal assistants and carers are observing social distancing and still providing care while using innovative ways to facilitate safe and timely discharges.

He said: “Our health care partners and hospital teams are working extremely hard to support the impact of changes linked to COVID 19. Thank you to our external suppliers who are at the front line to deliver dedicated care for those who are vulnerable and experiencing high levels of sickness in their homes. These are exceptionally difficult times for everyone and there’s a huge amount of adjusting and adapting going on. The team work I have witnessed has been incredible with people supporting each other with tireless dedication and commitment that I’m sure will continue throughout this crisis.”

Local authorities across Oxfordshire have worked with the local voluntary and community Sector, to develop a simple point of contact for those who have been told by government that they have been identified as extremely vulnerable, and who have no support network and would otherwise be completely isolated.

To solve this concern, a dedicated phone line manned by a centralised team is available to offer advice on a range of issues as a friendly and approachable way to keep in touch.

Stephen Chandler said: “We know this long-term restriction may cause additional concerns for those without any nearby support and we want to make sure any shielded resident who doesn’t know where to turn is not handling these additional worries alone.”

The dedicated shielded phone line is available to anyone who has been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable and is worried and needs support. The team will be able to offer advice on a range of issues when you contact them on 01865 89 78 20 or email shield@oxfordshire.gov.uk. From Saturday 30^th May the opening hours will be 9am-6pm Monday to Friday and 10am-2pm on Saturday. Closed on Sunday.

If you live in Oxford City, you can also phone 01865 24 98 11 between 8am and 5pm or visit www.oxford.gov.uk/CommunityAssistance

Meanwhile, residents are encouraged to channel and encourage the community spirit of ‘we’re all in this together’ with the ‘hand it back’ campaign. The local authority is supporting the NHS to ask residents to give unused health equipment back. Items can be recycled and reused such as: chairs, beds, mattresses, electrical items, bed rails, walking and toilet frames, and slings that can be collected by NRS healthcare while observing social distancing.

For further information about the ‘hand it back’ campaign, contact NRS to arrange a FREE collection of health care equipment that is no longer needed. Call NRS Healthcare on: 01869 225 420 or email enquiries@oxfordshire.nrs-uk.net Please do not attempt to return the equipment in person.