Blog

Across Oxfordshire and the wider United Kingdom, a quiet revolution is taking place in the way we support vulnerable children and young people. Therapy dogs are increasingly being recognised as powerful allies in helping young people in care overcome trauma, build trust and develop emotional resilience. Organisations that work with these remarkable animals understand the importance of maintaining comprehensive health coverage for therapy dogs to ensure these four-legged therapists can continue their vital work supporting those who need them most.

With approximately 107,000 children currently in care across the United Kingdom, the demand for innovative therapeutic approaches has never been greater. Research consistently shows that animal-assisted interventions can reduce stress hormones, increase oxytocin levels and help young people who have experienced trauma begin to form trusting relationships once again.

We are delighted to share news of a wonderful partnership that has brought comfort to children across Oxfordshire. Volunteers from Project Linus UK have donated a collection of beautifully handmade quilts and blankets to young people supported by our network, demonstrating the power of community kindness in action.

Project Linus UK is a volunteer organisation with a simple but powerful mission: to provide love, security, warmth and comfort to children who are sick, disabled, disadvantaged or distressed. They do this through the gift of new, homemade, washable quilts and blankets, each one lovingly made by volunteer knitters and quilters across the country.

No child should have to carry their belongings in a bin bag. Yet for thousands of children in care across the UK, this is a reality they face when moving between placements. That is why we are proud to share the work of Madlug, a social enterprise on a mission to give every child in care the dignity they deserve.

Madlug, which stands for "Make A Difference Luggage," operates on a simple but powerful principle. For every bag purchased, they donate a pack-away travel bag to a child in care. Since launching in 2015, they have distributed over 110,000 bags to young people across the UK and Ireland.

This summer, young people across Oxfordshire had the opportunity to explore African history, art and culture through a series of creative workshops. Led by educator and writer Natty Mark Samuels, the African Studies Summer School brought together children and families for an unforgettable journey of discovery.

The workshops, held at various venues across the county, introduced participants to the rich heritage of Africa and the Caribbean through storytelling, chant, poetry and art. From exploring the ancient kingdoms of West Africa to understanding the influence of African sculpture on modern European art, young people gained new perspectives on history and culture.