Applications sought for awards scheme tackling social segregation

The Oxfordshire Community Foundation (OCF) is seeking applications to the High Sheriff’s Community Integration Awards which aim to address problems of social segregation such as those witnessed in the context of the Grenfell Tower disaster.

Successful projects will also be recognised at an annual awards ceremony hosted by the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire.

Groups that have received a High Sheriff’s Community Integration Award in recent years include African Families in the UK (AFiUK), which helps women from developing countries understand the role of the state in family life in the UK and the opportunities offered, and Ark-T, whose Herspace project brings vulnerable young women together with older women at a local care home, who share experiences of the problems that they also faced when young.

Jayne Woodley, chief executive at OCF, said: “Here at OCF we have been moved by the story of murdered MP Jo Cox, and found that her philosophy that we have more in common than that which divides us particularly resonated with us. We believe that the majority of people in Oxfordshire would agree with this sentiment.”

OCF is particularly looking for applications from organisations that are collaborating across diverse groups. To find out more and apply, visit www.oxfordshire.org/community-integration.

Projects may demonstrate some of the following:

> Bringing together groups across different cultures, ages, faiths, or any other diverse groups;

> Promoting joint approaches to problem-solving;

> Ensuring understanding, shared knowledge and common purpose;

> Improving communication and understanding between diverse groups;

> Involving marginalised groups;

> Addressing social isolation or exclusion.