Two Campaigns, One Goal: A Fairer Oxford

Members of our Social Justice Team at the Oxford Citizens Delegates Assembly Meeting in Feb 2026. L-R: Holly, Nick, Charles, Ronan, Sue, Steve and Catherine

In March, members of our Social Justice Team attended the first meetings of two campaigns we have chosen to support through Oxford Citizens. Both aim to make Oxford a safer and fairer place for people who live here.

The campaign ideas grew out of the listening campaign we took part in over the past few months with Oxford Citizens. During this process, organisations listened carefully to the experiences of their members. At a Delegates Assembly Meeting at Blackfriars Hall in February, these two issues were chosen as priorities for action – both worthwhile and winnable.

The first campaign focuses on a simple but important change for the safety of those walking back from a bus stop at night: installing lighting in Fry’s Hill Park, an unlit park near the Holiday Inn at the Kassam Stadium. Several asylum seekers who live in the hotel have recently been attacked there under cover of darkness, and better lighting would make the area significantly safer. Anne attended the meeting with Catherine and Nick, along with members from other groups and a small group of those who are staying in the hotel or have stayed there in the past.

“The meeting was very productive and action is now underway,” Anne said. “At the end of the evening we were asked to describe how we felt in one word. I found myself calling out ‘optimistic’. Working with others towards a shared goal, and seeing their commitment, felt extremely positive and hopeful.”

The second campaign focuses on transport—specifically, making bus travel more affordable for young people in Oxford. They currently pay up to £8.40 per day to get to school and back.

Holly joined the online meeting with Ronan and Charles.

“Our meeting was a bit unusual,” Holly said. “None of the young people were there because they had to meet separately during school hours.”

Around fifteen people took part, including members of Oxford Jewish Congregation, Church Mission Society, and the headteacher of Greyfriars School. Together they began shaping possible campaign goals.

“We suggested two ideas,” Holly explained. “First, a fare cap for under-18s and those in full-time education. Second, making bus tickets transferable, so if you have to take two buses you only pay for one journey.”

Holly has volunteered to help lead the transport campaign alongside students from Greyfriars School.

“I’m really excited to watch the young people take leadership in this campaign,” she said. “That’s what I love most about working with Citizens UK.”

Both campaigns are just beginning, but they reflect what community organising is all about: listening to people’s concerns, building alliances, and working together to make practical changes that improve everyday life.

We’ll share more updates as the work develops.

Holly and Anne, members of our Social Justice Team