The 'Big Society' was the flagship policy idea of the 2010 UK Conservative Party general election manifesto. It now forms part of the legislative programme of the Conservative – Liberal Democrat Coalition Agreement. The stated aim is to create a climate that empowers local people and communities, building a 'Big Society' that will take power away from politicians and give it to people. While some have responded to the policy favourably, its aims have been queried and disputed by other commentators.
The stated priorities are:
1) Give communities more powers (localism and devolution)
2) Encourage people to take an active role in their communities (volunteerism)
3) Transfer power from central to local government
4) Support co-ops, mutuals, charities and social enterprises
5) Publish government data (open/transparent government)
For those who are studying at OISE Oxford for long periods of time, it is great idea to get more involved in the local community - to experience the 'Big Society'! And volunteering is a very easy option for this to happen. Becoming a volunteer is a fantastic way to meet new people, develop new skills, gain experience and a great way to practice English.
5% of Oxford's population volunteer at least 1 hour per week, which is higher than the national average of 4.7%. Given the current population of Oxford, which is approximately 150,000 people, 5% equates to around 7500 people.
You can find out about volunteering opportunities in Oxford from the Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action (OCVA) website and Do-It website.
Just do-it!
The stated priorities are:
1) Give communities more powers (localism and devolution)
2) Encourage people to take an active role in their communities (volunteerism)
3) Transfer power from central to local government
4) Support co-ops, mutuals, charities and social enterprises
5) Publish government data (open/transparent government)
For those who are studying at OISE Oxford for long periods of time, it is great idea to get more involved in the local community - to experience the 'Big Society'! And volunteering is a very easy option for this to happen. Becoming a volunteer is a fantastic way to meet new people, develop new skills, gain experience and a great way to practice English.
5% of Oxford's population volunteer at least 1 hour per week, which is higher than the national average of 4.7%. Given the current population of Oxford, which is approximately 150,000 people, 5% equates to around 7500 people.
You can find out about volunteering opportunities in Oxford from the Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action (OCVA) website and Do-It website.
Just do-it!
