Equalities Roadshow to visit towns across South and Vale

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are back on the road for a second year travelling to seven market towns across the two districts starting with Abingdon on Monday 7 September.

Council officers will be speaking to the public about what the councils do to support equality – this includes the Move Together and YouMove programmes with the council’s Active Communities team, financial help for people with disabilities and more.

The roadshow will visit locations on the following dates:

Cllr Lucy Edwards, Cabinet member for Corporate Services at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “Off the back of the success of last year’s roadshow I’m pleased that we’re able to get back on the road again and share the details of our services with residents and businesses, which we know was really useful on the last roadshows.

“Whether you need support due to a disability, are in need of help navigating our council services having moved here from another country or just want to speak to us about a matter concerning you, this roadshow is not only about us talking but also listening. Our services are for everyone, and we are here to help.”

In July of this year both councils adopted motions reaffirming their commitment to being welcoming and inclusive organisations for all, following the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) recent revised code of practice.

At South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse council meetings, both councils resolved to continue to value, respect, welcome and create a safe environment for transgender and non-binary residents, staff, and visitors to access essential services and public spaces. The councils are delivering an action plan to support this commitment which includes auditing building and raising awareness of staff to respond to queries.

In 2022 the councils adopted a Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (due to be reviewed later this year) and have Diversity and Social Campaign calendars which reflect a range of awareness days supporting different faiths, LGBTQ+ events, health campaigns and activities that are in line with the council’s core priorities.