A Bicester-based charity for widows and widowers has received a boost, thanks to Oxford United.
Bicester Widows received a £1,000 donation from a fund linked to Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires project, a programme designed to deliver significant impact across the county via supportive activities as part of the Club’s new stadium delivery.
The members-run group supports individuals who have lost their partners by encouraging them to get out of the house to socialise with others with similar experiences and support each other with living on their own. It currently has around 40 members and welcomes both men and women, most of whom are aged over 60.
Bicester Widows hosts regular meetings and outings in Bicester as well as day trips and experiences to destinations across the UK. The Club’s donation will fund activities for members and their friends and families, including a trip to the theatre and visits to Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold.
Wendy Reeves, Bicester Widows committee member, said: “This funding will make a major difference to the support we can provide our members this year. As a small group it’s brilliant to receive this recognition and vital help, it means so much to us.
“Our group provides its members with outreach and support and having the funds means we can treat them to days out and activities that will help reduce loneliness and boost mental wellbeing. Thank you to Oxford United for its support.”
Adam Benson, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer at Oxford United, added: “Bicester Widows provides such an important service to its members who rely on them for support as they adjust to living without a loved one.
“Oxford United in the Community’s Manor Club has shown us how challenging loneliness can be and how important it is to support people with inclusive social events. Bicester Widows align with our community values and we’re pleased to be able to help.”
Ten Oxfordshire-based not-for-profit organisations that support the provision of sport and physical activity, as well as health and wellbeing programmes, were selected by a judging panel to each receive a £1,000 grant from the Club. The successful applicants demonstrated how the funding would help them make improvements and deliver more impact in our communities.
The grants will be used for projects ranging from providing new kit and equipment through to improving community facilities.
The Dreaming Spires project includes a variety of initiatives such as work experience, apprenticeship and employment opportunities for students and young professionals, plus mental health support programmes, mentoring and education. It consists of five core elements which prioritise opportunity, accessibility, people’s mental wellbeing, development and local legacy.
Oxford United has submitted a planning application with Cherwell District Council to build a 16,000 capacity all-electric stadium north of Oxford, featuring a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre, health and wellbeing space and a community plaza.