Skills & Inequality in Oxford – Resident Survey

Overview

Help shape Oxford’s future

Oxford is known for its world-class research and innovation, but not everyone shares in its success. We know that there are real barriers to opportunity, from access to training and childcare to difficulties getting a foot in the door of a local employer. At the same time, businesses cannot always find the skilled local staff they need.

To tackle these challenges, Oxford City Council is carrying out a major study on skills and inequality. Our goal is to better understand the challenges residents face and take meaningful action to help communities and young people access rewarding, secure employment.

We’re running a short survey to hear about your skills, employment needs and career aspirations.

Everyone in Oxford is welcome to take part, and we’re especially keen to hear from people living in Barton & Sandhills, Rose Hill & Iffley, Littlemore, and Blackbird Leys.

Why your views matter

Whether you have recently left school, are looking for work, considering a career change or looking to develop new skills through training – we want to hear from you.

By taking just a few minutes to share your experiences, both challenges and successes, you will play a vital role in shaping Oxford’s Skills Strategy. Your input will help us build a clear picture of:

• the kinds of jobs and training opportunities local people are aiming for
• the main barriers Oxford residents face when accessing work or training
• the types of support you would find most useful

Your feedback will help us shape future job support, training programmes and career opportunities tailored to our communities.

The survey is open to all Oxford residents, particularly those aged 18-64.

What happens next?

After the survey closes, we will analyse the responses alongside insights from local schools and businesses to develop Oxford's Skills Strategy. Working closely with local partners, we will use this information to design and deliver targeted actions that support local people and businesses, helping to build a skilled workforce and create more opportunities right here in our communities.

A summary of our findings will be published on the Oxford City Council website by Spring 2026 to outline what we have learned and what action we are taking.