Equalities Roadshow to visit towns across South and Vale
Published Wednesday 26 August 2026
Roadshows offering information ranging from how to get more active, who to contact if people need help with bin collections and the opportunity to chat about all things equality related are coming to towns in South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse this autumn.
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are back on the road for a second year travelling to seven market towns across the two districts starting with Abingdon on Monday 7 September.
Council officers will be speaking to the public about what the councils do to support equality – this includes the Move Together and YouMove programmes with the council’s Active Communities team, financial help for people with disabilities and more.
The roadshow will visit locations on the following dates:
- 7 September – Abingdon Market 8am-3pm
- 12 September – Didcot Market 9am-2pm
- 16 September – Wantage Market 8am – 3pm
- 25 September – Wallingford Market 9am-2pm
- 6 October – Faringdon Market 8.30am – 1pm
- 13 October – Thame Market 8am-2.30pm
- 22 October – Henley Market 9am-2pm
Cllr Mike Giles, Cabinet member for Corporate Services, Policy and Climate Action at South Oxfordshire District Council said: “Equality can mean so many different things to different people, in some way the subject of equality affects us all, even if we’re not aware of it.
“It’s important that we are doing everything we can as an organisation to make sure our services are accessible and equal for everyone and that our residents are aware of the support we can offer. I encourage anyone that can, to come along and chat to our officers on the roadshow.”
Cllr Lucy Edwards, Cabinet member for Corporate Services at Vale of White Horse District Council said: “Off the back of the success of last year’s roadshow I’m pleased that we’re able to get back on the road again and share the details of our services with residents and businesses, which we know was really useful on the last roadshows.
“Whether you need support due to a disability, are in need of help navigating our council services having moved here from another country or just want to speak to us about a matter concerning you, this roadshow is not only about us talking but also listening. Our services are for everyone, and we are here to help.”
In July of this year both council’s adopted motions reaffirming their commitment to being welcoming and inclusive organisations for all, following the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) recent revised code of practice.
At South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse council meetings, both councils resolved to continue to value, respect, welcome and create a safe environment for transgender and non-binary residents, staff, and visitors to access essential services and public spaces. The councils are delivering an action plan to support this commitment which includes auditing building and raising awareness of staff to respond to queries.
In 2022 the councils adopted a Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (due to be reviewed later this year) and have Diversity and Social Campaign calendars which reflect a range of awareness days supporting different faiths, LGBTQ+ events, health campaigns and activities that are in line with the council’s core priorities.
Ends
The councils’ Annual Equalities Report 2025/26 can be found on their websites:
