We’re excited to introduce you to the amazing staff members who joined us last month as part of the Small and Mighty programme – a partnership to enhance support for the small voluntary and community organisations across Oxfordshire.
Robin – Programme manager
Robin studied Russian and Philosophy before working in international human rights and then international publishing. He was a specialist TA for pupils with complex Autism Spectrum Disorders and a Trustee for a housing association which pioneered ‘Care in the Community’. He has just co-ordinated a pilot health and wellbeing programme for adults with learning disabilities across Oxfordshire and been the consultant for a community insight report. He’s a Green Party County Councillor for an area of nine rural parishes in South Oxfordshire where he lives and currently County Champion for Mental Health and Wellbeing.
“I’m really looking forward to meeting the unsung heroes across the county who contribute so much to their communities, finding out what they do and how they do it and trying to help them do more of it.”
Jane – Community Development Worker
Jane has worked in community development for twenty years, including in her own community in Florence Park, Oxford. She says, “Small and Mighty is a very exciting programme for Oxfordshire. Having worked in small community groups in my local area and across Oxfordshire, I have seen the big difference their activities can make to people’s happiness, health and lives. They may be small groups, but they have a mighty and beneficial effect on individuals and communities! We look forward to nourishing, valuing and supporting community groups so they can thrive and continue doing their great work.
Vicki- Community Development Worker
“In my previous roles at OCVA, supporting Well Together and the Connected Communities Fund, what I’ve most enjoyed is working directly with groups and hearing from them about how things are going, and also what is currently feeling difficult so that we can find a way forward. I’m so happy to have secured a new position in the Small and Mighty team! I’m looking forward to continuing to develop relationships and knowledge of grassroots community action across Oxfordshire – and offering a listening ear and a helping hand. “
Becky- Community Development Worker
Becky has recently joined OCVA as a community development worker with the Small and Mighty Programme. “I have a background in mental health support, employment coaching and community work in Oxfordshire, and recently completed a masters in Global Development and Humanitarian Practice, with a focus on Social Inclusion. I am really looking forward to meeting the inspiring people running charities and community groups which make a difference to so many and supporting them to keep growing.”
Emily – Community First Oxfordshire, programme partner
“We are thrilled that The National Lottery has funded this work. It will make a huge difference to the local support offered to the smallest community organisations. Because this is a four-year project, we have the time to shape the partnership, play to our strengths, and offer consistent, far-reaching support, improving as we go”
Laura – OCVA programme partner
“Small and micro organisations play a vital role in our communities. They help our county flourish, yet too often they are working alone, facing financial pressure and challenges that can feel isolating and lead to burnout. We are delighted that the National Lottery has recognised the importance of local infrastructure support, helping ensure that these small but mighty organisations can access the help they need to thrive.”
The Small and Mighty (SaM) Support Programme is a partnership of Community First Oxfordshire, OCVA, Oxford Community Action, Volunteer Link Up (West Oxfordshire) and Charity Mentors Oxfordshire to enhance our collective support for the small voluntary and community organisations across Oxfordshire.