This morning, we came together at Thames Valley Police Headquarters in Kidlington, kindly hosted by Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner, and his office, for another in our series of Breakfast Conversations—gatherings focused on hearing the young unheard. Bringing together an extraordinary mix of voices—from policing, education, youth work, local government, and the voluntary sector—we…
This morning, I had the privilege of joining a Teams call with three inspiring colleagues from Oxfordshire County Council: Elena, Roz, and Rosie. The conversation was energising – a window into some of the most thoughtful, practical work I’ve seen when it comes to engaging young people in the decisions that will shape the world…
Earlier this week, I was fortunate to spend the morning at the Oxford Combined Court Centre, sitting alongside a visiting High Court Judge. As High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, I hold a traditional role in supporting the judiciary—but this visit offered something much more immediate: the chance to observe the justice system in action from a…
It was a rather soggy Oxford Pride this year — but no amount of drizzle could dampen the spirit of the day. From the moment we stepped off from the top of Paradise Street, the sense of joy, solidarity, and celebration was unmistakable. I was proud to walk alongside colleagues from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue…
This morning, the latest in our series of Breakfast Conversations took place in Blackbird Leys—a vibrant, diverse community with a rich history and a passionate group of professionals committed to the wellbeing of its young people. Gathered around the table were representatives from youth work, education, local government, the voluntary sector, and grassroots initiatives—all united…
I’ve just been reading a thoughtful post from my dear friend Dan Wood – a beautiful and quietly powerful reminder of why Pride is still necessary. Not as a corporate logo change or a party in the park (though there’s joy in both), but as something deeper: a moment of protest, visibility, and solidarity. This…
Dear friends, As May draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a month that has brought moments of profound sorrow, stirring celebration, and powerful conversations. Each week has deepened my conviction that community lies at the heart of public service. And that young people, so often on the periphery of our decisions, must…
Today, I had the privilege of visiting HMP Aylesbury with my fellow High Sheriffs – Sean from Berkshire and Pippa from Buckinghamshire (who had very kindly organised the visit for us). We were joined by our respective Chaplains, Shaun and Mark from the Oxfordshire Shrieval team, and Nick from South Bucks Hospice. We were all…
This evening, I had the enormous pleasure of joining African Families in the UK (AFiUK) as they celebrated their 10th anniversary – a remarkable milestone for a charity that has spent the last decade supporting, empowering, and standing alongside migrant families in Oxfordshire and beyond. The civic party included myself, The Lord Lieutenant and MP…
Last night I spent time with the young people and youth workers at Didcot TRAIN — a brilliant local charity that’s been standing alongside teenagers in the town for more than twenty years. It was an evening of conversation, laughter, and some sobering reflection. Above all, it was a chance to listen. TRAIN exists to…
