Over £124,000 pledged to boost 10 local projects as Westhive crowdfunding powers community action

Councillor Rachel Crouch, Executive Member for Stronger Healthy Communities, said: “Westhive is all about empowering our communities. It gives local people the tools to bring their ideas to life, helping them gather support, unlock funding and lead the positive changes they want to see in their neighbourhoods. The projects we have supported so far show just how much can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. 

“We are proud that Westhive has now reached its fifth round. That is a real testament to the strength, creativity and ambition within our communities, and having seen so many successful rounds already is something worth celebrating. As part of this latest round, the Council is pledging funding for a variety of projects across West Oxfordshire, ensuring they have what they need to grow, take shape and make a lasting difference. It is inspiring to see these ideas continue to flourish and we remain committed to helping them succeed.” 

In the first four rounds, Westhive has raised an impressive £948,172 to help 28 local initiatives get off the ground. Over 1,300 residents have pledged support so far, helping projects to succeed across the district. 

The platform gives local groups a modern, simple way to raise money, promote their work and connect with the wider community. Council pledges help unlock extra support and build momentum for these important causes. 

In the latest round of funding, the Council and the Community Infrastructure Fund has pledged a total of £124,649 to 10 projects. These include work to support young carers, improve village halls and promote creativity, mental health and community wellbeing. 

The projects currently seeking support on Westhive include: 

• Against The Grain Oxfordshire CIC - crafting connections for young people and the community  

• Be Free Young Carers – expanding the reach through West Oxfordshire to create brighter futures for young carers  

• Soldiers of Oxfordshire - Creating bridges across generations through learning and arts 

• Cotswolds Arts Through Schools - Empowering children through the arts in Charlbury  

• Sapphic Bison - Community led blood testing support for trans and gender diverse people  

• Churchill and Sarsden Village Hall - Kitchen refurb project 

• Witney and West Oxfordshire Foodbank – Moving to a new home to increase storage capacity and have a community space to break the cycle of poverty 

• Charlbury Pre-School - Installing a new music and sensory shed  

Projects that have reached their crowdfunding target:

• The Dorcas Dress Project - Sewing sessions in Carterton & Chipping Norton 
• Tackley Village Memorial Hall – Improving energy efficiency for a warmer future 

Each project is led by local people who are passionate about making their area a better place to live. 

To learn more or show your support for a local project, visit the Westhive platform. Your support, big or small, could help unlock vital funding and bring ideas to life in the local area.