Oxfordshire on the Move is launched! We are taking a moment to reflect on our journey so far, where we're going next and why working collectively is so important:

Where did it all begin?

As we emerged from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, two key factors became clear. Firstly, there was a unique window of opportunity to build on the collaborations, partnerships and support networks that emerged during the crisis. If we work collectively going forwards, we can make a real difference to Oxfordshire's health and wellbeing.

Secondly, we need to harness the power of physical activity to tackle Oxfordshire's wider social issues. We all know that moving more is good for our physical and our mental health, but there are significant, embedded inequalities that mean far too many people in Oxfordshire don't have the opportunities they deserve to live an active life.

What's been achieved so far?

From the outset, it was vital that Oxfordshire on the Move was genuinely co-owned and not dictated by any one organisation or mindset. Out of the extensive discussions that we've held, we've been able to see the extent of the superb work already taking place to fight inactivity which we can build upon going forwards. We've been able to listen and better understand the complex barriers faced to activity, including from our Active Ambassadors and other groups with lived experience. And together, we've come up with four collective ambitions that we can start to work towards, through a social movement known as Oxfordshire on the Move.

Our four collective ambitions

What's next?

On 8th February we held our official launch event for Oxfordshire on the Move, and at this event were able to decide together on key actions that we can take towards each of our ambitions. These actions are the key drivers of Oxfordshire on the Move. They include ensuring that thousands more children in most need can learn to swim and be safe near water; to set up new bike libraries so that more children and young people can learn to ride a bike; to simplify our healthcare pathways into physical activity; to make sure that every priority neighbourhood has health walks and free activities that are easily accessible; and so much more. Our next steps are to build energy and momentum around these actions and ensure that we are working together as a collective to make a lasting difference.