The Oxford Labour Women's Group was set in 2010 with an aim to encourage more women to become active and stand for office, identify and campaign on issues relating to women, including the disproportionate impact on women of the coalition government's cuts and to develop a supportive and inclusive women’s network regardless of politics.

The group organise women’s canvasses which are sociable as well as purposeful and discussions, including a recent public meeting on the impact of the coalition government’s cuts. If you are interested in taking part in the women’s development programme please get in touch.

Bev Clack, Labour Candidate for St Clement’s Ward, said:

“The Oxford Labour Women’s Group played a vital part in my decision to stand as a Labour candidate in next May’s elections. I’ve always been a member of the party, but not always the most active. In the past, I found the structures of the party difficult to negotiate, and the Women’s Group has been a brilliant and supportive way of starting the process of getting involved. It’s enabled me to grow in confidence and to find my political voice. It’s great to meet with other women of all ages and from all backgrounds. Meetings are enjoyable and thought-provoking, and it is an important place to me where I know I'll find support and encouragement”.

Helen O’Hara, Labour Candidate for Cowley Ward, said:

“I grew up in Cowley and experienced the benefits of an area of considerable employment and opportunity for ordinary people.  In today's financial climate I would not have gone to university.

“Early in my career working with vulnerable people, a female colleague who was a Unison member gave me great support. From this I got more involved with and learned and understood the function and role of a union. More recently I have been able to share my ambition to make a positive difference with the many committed people I have met through the local Labour party. I started with door knocking sessions alongside local Labour MP Andrew Smith and following this have become more involved supporting the councillors' community work as a volunteer. The Women's group is a valuable space for discussion, questioning and encouragement. We have highlighted mainstream issues such as cuts to Child benefit, tax credits, and pensions”.

Pat Kennedy, Labour Candidate for Lye Valley Ward, said:

“I have been actively involved in Labour Party activity for nearly fifty years. I hasten to add that I started young as my parents were involved with trade union and Labour Party politics in Swindon.  My mother was a Wiltshire County Councillor for sixteen years and my great aunt was also a Labour councillor in Weymouth.

“I had always wanted to make a bigger contribution to the Labour Party’s achievements. Once I had more time in retirement, I decided to try to become a City Councillor in Oxford and I hope to be successful in 2012. The women’s group have been supportive of these aspirations”.