The idea
The Branch provides a range of services to meet the needs of the community, mitigating rural isolation, welcoming everyone, whatever age, stage or background, offering signposting and support.
We work with voluntary and statutory agencies to enable local access to their services, removing the barrier of travelling to Oxford, Banbury or Witney. Citizens Advice, Oxfordshire Mind, NHS Keystone Mental Health and Wellbeing team, Oxfordshire Parent Infant Project, Oxfordshire Discovery College are just a few of those we partner with.
We also provide bespoke courses and programmes to meet local needs. These include Domestic Abuse Recovery courses, Young Parent Group reaching parents under the age of 21, mentoring for families and young people as well as Alternative Provision and apprenticeship ready courses to help build aspiration and open doors for training and employment.
Some services are referral only, through a GP, health visitor or school, and many are open access to all.
What we'll deliver
- A help desk and signposting for those in need in our community
- Early intervention work with 0 to 18 year olds to break cycles and improve outcomes
- Local access to mental health and wellbeing support
- Opportunities for young people including access to Alternative Provision, work experience and Apprenticeships
- Support for those affected by Domestic Abuse, including 1:1 mentoring, access to recovery courses and whole family work
Why it's a great idea
The Branch exists to break down barriers, unlock potential and create opportunities. We journey with individuals - building hope, transforming lives.
We advocate for the homeless to help find somewhere to live and provide basic furniture (carpets, curtains, white goods, beds etc) to make it into a home.
Our mentoring and bespoke support for children and young people is building aspiration and helping them re-engage with school so that they can make the most of their education.
We help families to improve connection, strengthening their support networks.
Our CAP debt centre helps create a pathway to becoming debt free for the indebted.
Our Branch Out & Budget packs help families and individuals reduce bills with menu plans to help budget for the weekly shop and eat well. These have been replicated by WODC.
Our Domestic Abuse Recovery programme is highlighting additional challenges experienced in a rural setting and these are being used to share red flags throughout the County.
Steps to get it done
- Number of people accessing support to increase by 25% to 175 to 250 per week
