Council champions local voices with over £114k in community investment

West Oxfordshire District Council has pledged £114,388 to support community-driven projects through Westhive, its crowdfunding initiative that helps community groups and organisations bring their ideas to life. The platform enables local people to gather backing, unlock additional funding, and lead positive change in their areas.

Councillor Rachel Crouch, Executive Member for Stronger Healthy Communities, said: “Westhive is all about putting power into the hands of our communities by giving people the chance to lead the changes they care about and ensuring funding goes where it can really make a difference.

“We’re proud to back a fresh wave of grassroots projects with over £114,000 from the Westhive pledge pot. These groups are brimming with energy and creativity, working hard to enhance local services, spaces and support across West Oxfordshire.

“Some projects have already reached their funding goals, but many still need a final boost. Every pledge helps bring great ideas closer to reality. I encourage everyone to visit the Westhive platform, discover what’s happening locally, and get involved. Together, we can help make West Oxfordshire an even better place to live.”

Since launching in 2023, Westhive has allocated over £423,000 for community projects across the district showcasing West Oxfordshire’s strong sense of public participation and local pride.

In the latest funding round, council support is enabling a wide range of initiatives, including:

• Let’s Roll! Wheelchair Dancing for All – An inclusive dance school offering specialist dance opportunities to disabled and chronically ill people of all ages.
• Carterton Family Centre – Continuing to provide low-cost activities and vital support for local families.
• Community Floodplain Restoration West Oxfordshire – A project restoring meadows and wet woodlands, enhancing biodiversity, and bringing people together to protect rare habitats.

Lizzie, founder of specialist dance school Let’s Roll! Wheelchair Dancing for All, said: “I’m buzzing with excitement to know we’ve hit our Westhive target thanks to the Council’s generosity and all our supporters. We can continue our specialist classes and support dancers representing GB in international competitions - as well as host our own National Inclusive Competition in 2026. It’s so exciting!

Projects still crowdfunding and seeking your support include:

• Revitalise Carterton Family Centre
• Community Floodplain Restoration West Oxfordshire
• Creating a New Library at Hailey School
• Hanborough Pavilion Improvement Project
• The Old Bakehouse
• The Station Hot Chocolate Van

For more information or to support these exciting community projects, visit the Westhive platform and help unlock vital funding for West Oxfordshire.

Contact Information

West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team

communications@westoxon.gov.uk