John May's Declaration Speech

John made his Declaration to serve The King and Oxfordshire on the 3rd April 2025, in the Old Assizes Court in Oxford.

My Lord, Lord Lieutenant, Ladies and Gentlemen, friends and colleagues,

It is an extraordinary honour to stand before you today as I take on the role of High Sheriff of Oxfordshire – an office grounded in centuries of tradition, yet offering a unique platform to engage with the pressing issues of our time.

As I step into this ancient role, I begin with heartfelt thanks.

To His Majesty, for the trust placed in me.

To my predecessor, James Macnamara – thank you for your generous encouragement and your dedicated service to this county. You brought both rigour and warmth to your year in office, shining a light on corners of the justice system too often overlooked. You reminded us that justice is upheld not only by judges and police officers, but by a whole community – many of whom you have celebrated with care, humour and generosity.

I’m also conscious of the privilege of standing among those who have served before me – several of whom are here today. Your example and continued support for the Shrievalty are deeply appreciated. You remind us that while each High Sheriff brings a different voice, we are all part of a shared story – rooted in justice, service, and community.

My thanks, too, to those who helped make today so special. Harriet – for your calm professionalism throughout James’s year. Greg – for your hospitality and culinary flair. To Tim and the County Hall team, and to His Majesty’s Coroner, Mr Darren Salter, for the generous use of his court – thank you.

A special thank you to the young people from Oxfordshire’s schools and the County Music Service, whose joyful performances have lifted our spirits today. We are proud of you – and grateful.

And finally, to the remarkable team of volunteers who will support me in the year ahead. A particular mention to my husband, Mark – stepping into the role of Chamberlain with his usual calm efficiency. I couldn’t ask for a better partner in this adventure.

It is customary at this point for the incoming High Sheriff to outline the theme that will shape their year – a focus that brings purpose and direction to this ancient role in the modern world.

My focus for the year ahead is simple in its phrasing but urgent in its intent: Hearing the Young Unheard.

Because the truth is this: many young people in Oxfordshire are doing well – flourishing in homes and schools, in sports clubs, youth organisations and communities. But others are not.

Some feel invisible.
Some feel silenced.
Some have been told, by systems or by society, that they don’t belong, or don’t matter.

And if we want to prevent harm – and reduce crime before it takes root – we need to listen to these young voices. Not with suspicion, but with compassion. Not with impatience, but with intention.

The recent Netflix drama Adolescence has sparked an extraordinary public conversation. It follows Jamie – a 13-year-old boy accused of a shocking crime. But he is no villain. He is, heartbreakingly, just a boy.

And we all know him.

He could be sitting in a classroom in Didcot or playing football in Banbury. He might be sulking at the back of a youth group in Bicester or scrolling silently in a bedroom in Cowley.

Adolescence doesn't just tell Jamie’s story. It holds up a mirror to all of us – and it asks hard questions about the kind of men we are raising, the kinds of messages we’re sending, and the dangerous silences we allow to persist.

But let me be clear: this is not only a story about boys.

We must also hear the voices of girls and young women – so often judged, controlled, underestimated or exposed to harm.
We must ensure they are safe, respected, and empowered.

And we must go further.

We must centre the experiences of all young people – especially those who live at the intersection of disadvantage. Those who are marginalised because of race or disability, faith or gender identity, sexuality or social class.

Our commitment to Hearing the Young Unheard must mean hearing all of them.

Throughout this year, I will visit schools and youth services, courts and charities, police teams and community centres – listening to those who support young people every day.

But I will not be doing this alone. Oxfordshire is already home to extraordinary individuals, organisations and agencies who work with dedication and skill to reach young people before crisis takes hold, many of them represented in this Court today.

My commitment is to work with them, to learn from them, and to amplify their voices – shining a light on what they already do so well and helping others to understand why it matters so deeply.

Because early intervention is not a soft option. It is the courageous, intelligent, and proven route to lasting safety, stronger communities and brighter futures.

To the many people who are already doing this work – thank you. I will do all I can to raise up your stories and share your impact.

And to every young person across this county – especially those who feel unheard – know this:
You matter.
We see you.
And we will not give up on you.

Let this be a year of listening. Of understanding. Of action.

Let it be the year we all choose to do better – for the young, the unheard, and the future we all share.

Thank you.