Well Together in 2025 has been about listening, gaining a deeper understanding of what VCFSE groups and organisations are facing, and creating opportunities for connection. From small conversations to larger gatherings, every event has been shaped by the people who took part.
Over the past year, Well Together has grown in ways that really matter at a community level.
Working side by side – Grassroots groups, community organisers, volunteers, and residents have shaped activities and projects so that they have evolved based on real experiences and needs. We have continued to work closely with our partners in statutory organisations, in local government and in health, to better meet the needs of communities by supporting them as best we can, from all angles.
Welcoming spaces – Events have been relaxed, inclusive, and open. Through our co-hosted collaboration and celebration events we have created spaces where people could be themselves and take part in ways that felt right for them.
More people getting involved – We’ve seen new faces at events across the year, alongside familiar ones who have stayed connected. As well as getting out to visit many groups in action, we were so happy to see people come along to our event in central Oxford from Banbury and from Abingdon.
Real connections – People have told us they felt less alone, more confident, and more connected to others in their community.
Learning as we go – Listening has been at the heart of Well Together this year. Each event, visit, report, conversation has helped us understand a bit more about what works, what helps, and what people want more of.
Well Together in 2025 was shaped by everyone who showed up – whether you ran a group, came to one event or many, organised sessions, shared your story, or supported from behind the scenes. Thank you for being part of it. We’re looking forward to continuing the journey together in 2026.
Vicki, Well Together Programme Manager