A festive evening with Oxfordshire Youth

Tonight was one of those evenings that leaves you both energised and quietly proud. As both Chair of Trustees at Oxfordshire Youth and High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, I had the joy of joining supporters, partners and friends from across the business and civic community for our annual gift-wrapping night.

And what an evening it was.

The Oxfordshire Youth offices were full – not just of people, but of enthusiasm, warmth and that wonderful sense of everyone pulling in the same direction. Seeing so many supporters come together to wrap presents for young people in supported accommodation across the county felt like a moment of genuine community spirit. A small act, perhaps, but one that speaks volumes.

We also heard brilliant presentations from Oxfordshire Youth staff, partner organisations and – most importantly – young people themselves. Their stories brought to life, in a way statistics never can, the impact Oxfordshire Youth makes every single day.

I want to pause here to acknowledge something important: the sheer calibre of the OY team. They are extraordinary. Their professionalism, compassion and absolute commitment to young people are woven into everything they do. And guiding all of this is the courageous and inspirational leadership of Jodie, our CEO, and Emmy, our Deputy CEO. Their vision and determination set the tone for an organisation that never stops fighting for equity, empowerment and opportunity.

I left feeling avuncularly proud of the whole team; grateful to everyone who joined us tonight; and reminded, once again, that when Oxfordshire shows up for its young people, remarkable things happen.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part. Your support makes a real, tangible difference to young people across our county.