New City Funding Fair to help community and voluntary groups find funds

Oxford City Council has worked in partnership with Oxfordshire Community Voluntary Action (OCVA) to create the new fair.

The free event will take place between 11am and 2pm on Tuesday 28 March at The Asian Cultural Centre in Manzil Way.

It is open to all community and voluntary organisations that deliver services in Oxford, and aims to provide an opportunity to:

• Meet funders and support organisations
• Carry out funding searches
• Receive funding advice

Oxford City Council provided £2.4m of grants last year. This figure includes the annual £1.4m that the City Council provides to community and voluntary groups every year.

This funding is largely targeted to organisations that provide help and support for residents living in Oxford’s disadvantaged communities.

Despite being a relatively affluent area overall, Oxford has pockets of deprivation. Part of Blackbird Leys and Rose Hill was is amongst the most deprived 10 per cent of areas in England, according to Government figures.

Kathy Shaw, OCVA Chief Executive, said: “This is a great opportunity for groups to speak to funders directly and to gain wider funding advice and support, as well as an opportunity to network with other groups.”

Councillor Christine Simm, Executive Board Member for Culture and Communities, said: “The community and voluntary organisations provide a lifeline for residents across Oxford, but the sector is facing serious financial challenges following cuts.

“Oxford City Council is committed to supporting the community and voluntary sector, and provides in excess of £1.4m of grants every single year. We hope the City Funding Fair will further help organisations during these difficult times.”