Witney support worker embarks on Oxford University climate course
A support worker from Oxfordshire County Council’s Witney Community Support Service (CSS) has taken a bold step by enrolling on a prestigious climate change course at the University of Oxford.
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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