Promoting social inclusion

What is social inclusion? 

We have a priority aim of 'reducing inequality through social inclusion'. This is a positive statement of what we wish to achieve in tackling social exclusion. 

Social exclusion is 'a short-hand term for what can happen when people or areas suffer from a combination of linked problems such as unemployment, discrimination, poor skills, low incomes, poor housing, high crime, bad health and family breakdown'.

How much social exclusion and deprivation is there in Oxford?

17 of the 85 'Super Output Areas' in Oxford are in the 30% most deprived areas in England.  You can find out more information on our poverty and deprivation statistics pages.

How will Oxford City Council improve social inclusion?

The Oxford Plan 2007-10 describes some of the things we are doing to improve social inclusion.

We will develop cohesive communities and support cultural diversity.  One of the things that we will do to achieve this is to help communities come together through local cultural, recreational and sports activities for all age groups; promoting healthy lifestyles; life skills and basic skills.

We will ensure that the economic success of the city is shared by all sections of the community.  One of the things that we will do to achieve this is to continue to help people gain the skills to take advantage of job opportunities in the area through our Learning Hubs in Rose Hill, Barton and Blackbird Leys.

We will work with partner organisations to promote health and social welfare, and to reduce fuel poverty. Some of the things that we will do to achieve this are working with the Primary Care Trust to promote healthy lifestyles and investing resources into energy efficiency programmes.

Which other organisations are involved in improving social inclusion?

Many different organisations help support people who are socially excluded.  Public bodies include Oxfordshire County Council, Oxfordshire Primary Care Trust and Thames Valley Police. 

Community and voluntary organisations provide key support to vulnerable people, some of which are supported through our community grants. Visit our Grants page for more information.

How can I find out more information?

You can read our equality and inclusion plans to find out more information.

Page last reviewed 12 Feb 2008