THE PURPOSES OF THE ORGANISATION ARE:-
To support new and emerging Black, and racially Minoritised Communities alongside more established Multi-ethnic communities to tackle and overcome barriers created by structural inequalities (e.g. labour market and ethnic health inequalities) that prevent Black and Minoritised individuals and communities from reaching their full potential and enjoying equal representation and participation as active citizens within UK institutions and wider civil society.
The purposes of Oxford Community Action is to promote community development, social inclusion and social justice for diverse, multi-ethnic communities aligned to the key community development principles of:
- Local Leadership – The communities play the leadership role in their own development.
- Collaborative Approach – Builds on collaboration and co-operation between communities, local and national government, voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.
- Sustainable Balance – Addressing economic, social, environmental and cultural considerations.
- Respect for Local Values – Communities values are understood and respected.
- Diversity, Equality and Inclusion – All of the communities members, regardless of gender, age, ability, race, ethnicity, culture, language, sexual orientation, or social and economic status are empowered and engaged in the community development process and are able to access its social and economic benefits.
- Common Vision – The communities members work together to define a common vision for the future.
- Community Assets Approach – Projects, initiatives, community development, is built on existing community capacity and assets.
- Community Volunteers/Champions – community development initiatives – values, respects, nurtures, and encourages community volunteers/champions.
Some examples of projects that we have done to support the local community:
- Food redistribution service reaching out to 350 families each week
- Connecting communities with nature through the monthly hikes
- Equipping the community with skills and resources to enable active travel
- Community-led action orientated research projects for meaningful change
- Support capacity building and skills development within marginalised communities
STRUCTURE
We established on 10th February 2019 and later formalised as a not-for-profit organisation (Company number: 12601424), headed by three directors (Hassan Sabrie, Mujahid Hamidi and Nigel Carter), a Secretary (Nigel Carter) and supported by a Management Committee for Oxford’s local communities. OCA has a chairman and Treasurer.