The Branch has partnered with NHS Keystone Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub to bring mental health support services into Chipping Norton. Visit our link in bio to watch a short video telling you more about the provision which is available at The Branch every Friday 9am - 5pm via appointment. Referral is via a GP. #nhskeystone #keystonementalhealth #mentalhealthsupport #oxfordshirecharity

Our playgroup, Minis, is held every Wednesday during term-time. Join us for a breakfast of cereals and croissants followed by play, songs and a Bible story. There's also plenty of tea, coffee and adult conversation for the parents and carers. 🚂 🧸☕️ 9.15 - 11.30am at The Branch, 16 Market Place #oxfordshireparents #oxfordshireplaygroups #chippingnorton

Last week in Connect Café we all enjoyed making leaves for this year's panto at @chippytheatre, Jack and the Beanstalk! Connect Café is back on Tuesday 15th October 1-2.30pm at The Branch, 16 Market Place, Chipping Norton. We always have a good choice of crafts and activities to get involved with. We'd love you to join us. #connectingthecommunity #communityoutreach #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton

Today is World Mental Health Day, a day to encourage each other that our mental health matters. Your mental health matters to The Branch and we would love to invite you to join us TOMORROW, Friday 11th October between 10am - 1pm to celebrate the launch of the Keystone Mental Health & Wellbeing provision which is now at The Branch every Friday offering expert, easy to access mental health support. Come and speak to the Keystone Team and other MH support organisations and find out more about accessing mental health services. Presentations at 11.30am followed by lunch and the famous Keystone cake! #mentalhealthsupport #worldmentalhealthday2024 #mentalhealthandwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton

All young parents aged 21 and under, during pregnancy or with children up to 5 years old, are invited to Young Parents Group. Join us for lunch, fun activities and a chat while the children play 12.30-2.30 every Thursday during term-time at The Branch, 16 Market Place, Chipping Norton. Our group provides a safe space to meet and connect with other young parents. We’d love to see you there! #youngparents #chippingnorton #communityoutreach

A reminder that there is no Connect Café today as the Branch is closed for staff training. Connect will be back on Tuesday 15th October.

A reminder that The Branch will be closed on Tuesday 8th October for staff training. Please note there will be no Connect Café that day.

All parents aged 21 and under, during pregnancy and with children up to 5 years old are welcome to our free Young Parents Group at The Branch every Thursday during term time at 12.30-2.30pm. We have a relaxed lunch and a range of activities including arts and crafts, music and movement. A great chance to meet and connect with other young mums and dads. There's also support and advice on offer. We'd love to see you there. #youngparents #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity

We are delighted to be collaborating with @newgroundcoffee who supply our coffee for all our groups- not only is it delicious, but it is COFFEE WITH CONVICTION. At New Ground they believe coffee can go beyond the cup and can be used as a catalyst for change right here in our very own communities. This is why they use their business to create work and training opportunities for ex-offenders across the UK, giving some of the most overlooked people in society a new beginning. They have a great coffee shop in Oxford, and you can buy their coffee online too at www.newgroundcoffee.com. #newgroundcoffee #impactbusiness #ukcoffeeroaster #oxfordshirecharity #oxfordshirebusiness

Please note The Branch will be closed on 8th October for staff training. There will therefore be no Connect Café that day.

Calling all young parents and young parents-to-be. Join us today from 12.30 for a delicious lunch and activities for you and your child(ren). All welcome! #youngparents #chippingnorton #communityoutreach #oxfordshirecharity

This week we made mosaic coasters in Connect Café. One of our members also made a crochet teddy for the young ones. We have different crafts available each week for anyone who'd like to take part. If you'd prefer to join us for just a hot drink and a chat, that's fine too. Connect Café takes place every Tuesday during term time 1pm - 2.30pm at The Branch, 16 Market Place. All are welcome! #chippingnorton #crafttime #communityoutreach #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirecharity

Hats off to the amazing team of volunteers from @virginmedia for giving us their time today. Their 2.5 hrs of hard work in the sunshine has transformed the garden and their presence at Connect Café this afternoon provided amazing assistance, particularly to the Ukrainians and those coming with their tech challenges! A fantastic team. Thank you! #volunteerappreciation #oxfordshirecharity #westoxfordshire #chippingnorton #supportinglocalcharity

Tomorrow at Connect Café we will have a Tech Workshop. 📱💻 Bring your tech challenges and a volunteer team from Virgin Media will do their best to help you. Connect Café takes place every Tuesday 1-2.30pm during term time at The Branch, 16 Market Place, Chipping Norton. #chippingnorton #connectingthecommunity #localgroups #westoxfordshire #communityoutreach

Minis returns on Wednesday 11th September 9.15 - 11.30am at The Branch, 16 Market Place. We'll have plenty of toys and activities to keep the little ones occupied while parents and carers enjoy a well-deserved cuppa. ☕️ 🥐 See you there! #oxfordshireplaygroup #oxfordshireparents #chippingnorton #toddlergroups #westoxfordshire

Huge thanks to Knight Frank for sponsoring us at The Moreton Show today. If you are visiting the show we would love to see you at the Knight Frank stand by the main ring. #moretonshow #oxfordshirecharity #moretoninmarsh #thebranchtrust

Young Parents Group returns on Thursday 5th September 12-2.30pm. All young parents aged 21 and under with children up to 5 years old are invited to join us for lunch, fun activities and a chat while the children play. Our group provides a safe space to meet and connect with other young parents. Please share this with anyone who may like to come along. Swipe left for full details. #communityoutreach #youngparentsupport #youngparentsuk #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #oxfordshireparents

Connect returns at 1-2.30pm on 10th September at its new home at The Branch, 16 Market Place. If you haven't yet been to Connect Café, it's a space for members of our community to connect through crafts, games or even just a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. All our welcome so do come and join us. #communityoutreach #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity #connectingthecommunity

Celebrating last week’s Co-op volunteers! Brilliantly, Co-op have sponsored our Community Kitchen. On Wednesday a fabulous team came along to put the finish touches to our 10 individual kitchen units. We’ve been trialling one of these units, and are excited that in September all 10 will be in action, helping all ages to learn new skills, grow in confidence and cook and share delicious food! #communitykitchen #chippingnorton #midcountiescoop #volunteerappreciation #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #ukcharity #supportlocalcharity

Join us from 10-11.30am on Wednesday 28th August at New Street Park for our second and final Minis meet up of the summer. Hopefully the weather will be kinder to us next week. We'll be by the swings from 10am with tea and coffee! See you then. ☕️ #chippingnorton #oxfordshireplaygroup #oxfordshirefamilies

We've collaborated with a number of local organisations to bring you a Play Day at Cotswold Crescent Play Area between 11am - 3pm on Wednesday 28th August. There'll be plenty of activities for the children. Also bring along your unwanted clothing to swap or upcycle. #oxfordshirefamilies #westoxfordshire #chippingnorton #oxfordshireevents #oxfordshirekids

Don't forget we're meeting at New Street Park tomorrow from 10-11.30am for a play and catch up. There'll be coffee available! Meet us at the swings from 10am. #summerplaygroup #parentandtoddlergroup #oxfordshire #chippingnorton #westoxfordshire #oxfordshireparents

A reminder that the second of Summer Friday Nights at Glyme Hall takes place tomorrow evening at 6-9pm. There's no need to book and all young people aged 11-16 years are welcome. #oxfordshireyouth #chippingnorton #youthactivities #youthgroups

Join us at 10-11.30am on 14th and 28th August at 10-11.30am for our Minis summer meet ups at New Street Park. Meet us by the swings from 10am. We will have coffee available for parents. We look forward to seeing you there! #oxfordshireplaygroup #oxfordshirefamilies #westoxfordshire #chippingnorton

All young people aged 11 - 16 are welcome to join us at 6-9pm this Friday at the first of our Summer Friday Nights at Glyme Hall. There'll be free food, games and activities. #youthactivities #chippingnorton #oxfordshireyouth #youthclubuk #summeractivitiesforkids

Oxfordshire County Council are running free activities for children aged 11-16 next month, in partnership with Charlbury Community Centre. Please see the flyer for full details. #oxfordshireyouth #kidssummeractivities #charlbury #chippingnorton

The Nurture Gardening Team have been busy this term and the garden at St Mary's Primary School is bursting with veg! A couple of weeks ago five parents and an older brother joined the children to harvest the crop of onions, parsnips, carrots, potatoes and lettuce. They then sat in the sunshine to share a picnic of carrots and lettuce washed down by apple juice. This year the school was awarded the RHS School Gardening Award level 1 (see picture three) and are now working towards level 2 as the garden develops and more children get involved. Thank you to Harriet Fender and Carol Soper for their brilliant hard work in leading and nurturing the children and encouraging them and their families in a love of getting stuck in and growing. #nurturegardening #gardeningforchildren #homegrownveg #schoolgardening #rhsschoolgardeningaward #westoxfordshire

Our fantastic new co-working space is now available to rent. We have a few desks remaining, conveniently located on the Garden Floor of our newly renovated building at 16 Market Place, Chipping Norton. For more information please visit our website (link in bio). If you are interested, please do get in touch at office@thebranchtrust.org. #chippingnorton #coworkingspaceoxfordshire #cotswoldbusiness #westoxfordshire #enstone #kingham #oxfordshirebusiness #officespaceoxfordshire

The Tree of Hope, painted with Japanese ink onto a wall in The Branch, has been created to bring together leaves created in mosaic by those who have been part of Kintsugi groups. 'Kintsugi' is the Japanese art form whereby a broken precious item is put back together again using gold which makes it stronger and with a different kind of beauty. Whilst I was painting the tree, Philip Sharman mentioned he had some gold leaf that had been in his possession for over 30 years. This old envelope containing 22 carat gold feather light leaves had belonged to his grandfather and Philip asked would I like to use it for the Tree. Upon opening the envelope I found the leaves were held in a small handmade book, made from the pages of a bible, with Psalm 30 at the top starting “Sing to the Lord”. This seemed so significant and coincidental. Using this beautiful gold leaf added that extra dimension to the branches of a tree that was designed to hold Hope within its leaves. Brenda Hayden #kitsugihope #treeofhope #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #wallart #chippingnorton

It's almost time for us to break for the summer. The last Minis before the holidays will be on Wednesday 17th July. Join us from 9.15am at The Branch, 16 Market Place for a light breakfast followed by play, singing and a Bible story. We will be running two meet ups at the park over the summer. Keep your eyes peeled for for full details coming soon...

Tuesday 16th July will be the last Connect Café before the summer break. Do join us for crafts, chat, a cuppa and cake 1 - 2.30pm at The Branch, 16 Market Place.

We're thrilled to have partnered with local organisations to bring you this great youth event next month at Glyme Hall. It will run for three weeks on 2nd, 9th and 16th August at 6-9pm. The event is open to all 11 - 16 year olds. You can just turn up on the evening, there's no need to book. Please share with anyone who may be interested. #YouthEvent #OxfordshireYouth #chippingnorton

We were absolutely delighted to receive a very generous donation of jewellery making supplies from lovely local business @thefibreworks last week. The equipment has already been put to good use at Connect Café, where our keen crafters got stuck in creating some lovely pieces, including this quirky safety pin charm broach. If you fancy trying something creative - or just popping in for a chat and a cuppa - do call in to Connect Café 1-2.30pm every Tuesday during term time at The Branch, 16 Market Place. #craftingtime #craftingcommunity #craftingsupplies #chippingnorton #localcharity #supportlocal #communitygroupsuk

Huge thanks to Hedges Law for galvanising support for The Branch through a brilliant raffle and silent auction. Thank you too to all those who contributed, helping to raise an amazing £2,500 to support the work of The Branch Trust - building hope and transforming lives in our town and surrounding villages. If you would like to get involved in a fundraising initiative we would love to hear from you. Visit our fundraising page on our website for ideas (link in bio). #charityfundraising #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #westoxfordshire #ukcharity

This week we had the great joy of welcoming a group of students from @kinghamhillschool to volunteer with us. They worked really hard - some in the pouring rain - to help us clear, clean, sort and tidy our stores for 'Making Homes', moved 6 tonnes of rubble out of The Branch garden, and helped tidy Kingham churchyard. There was lots of fun and laughter and we were able to share stories with them about the work we do through The Branch and how giving their time will make a real tangible difference to people in our community. #youthvolunteering #communityoutreach #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity

At our Young Parents Group (YPG) recently we learnt how to make a treasure basket for a baby or toddler by gathering safe and interesting things from around the house. We used brushes, shiny paper, curtain rings and ribbon to make a cheap and lovely sensory experience for the little ones. The parents were keen to have a go at home. Young Parents Group runs 12.30-2.30pm every Thursday during term-time and is open to all parents aged 21 and under, during pregnancy or with children up to 5 years old. #youngparents #toddlergroup #oxfordshireparents #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #treasurebasket

We had lots of water play at our toddler groups last week during the heatwave! 💦 #oxfordshireplaygroups #oxfordshirefamilies #westoxfordshire #chippingnorton #oxfordshiremums #oxfordshirecharity #waterplayfun

This week is World Wellbeing Week, an opportunity to remind each other and ourselves that looking after our wellbeing is important. It’s an individual thing - one person might find boxing the key to looking after their wellbeing, for another person it might be embroidery. At The Branch we like to keep the 5 Ways to Wellbeing in mind and by offering a wide range of wellbeing opportunities, aim to have a focus on wellbeing all year round: 💚 Cooking, creative arts, gardening and hopefully one day boxercise 💚 Opportunities to volunteer and learn new skills. 💚 Wellbeing support through Connect Café or our Young Parents, Lifeskills, Own My Life and other groups 💚 and working with other organisations such as @oxfordshiremind and @oxdiscovery to give a structured focus to wellbeing tools. Come and explore The Branch building at our Open Day tomorrow Sunday 30th June 11.30am to 4pm and find out more about how we can help you to make your wellbeing a priority. #worldwellbeingweek #wellbeingsupport #5waystowellbeing #oxfordshirecharity #westoxfordshire #chippingnorton #ukcharity

Join us tomorrow for our final Open Day, a chance to take a look around our new building and find out how The Branch will serve the community. #chippingnorton #localcharity #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #charityopenday

It's the final days to enter the Hedges Law raffle & silent auction, raising funds for The Branch. Hurry as bids and ticket purchases will close this Sunday at 7pm. Enter now via the link in our bio. #charityfundraising #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity

Our Young Parents Group returns tomorrow 12.30-2.30 for parents aged 21 and under during pregnancy or with children up who the age of 5. Come along to enjoy lunch and play and meet other local young parents. Swipe left for full details. #youngparents #chippingnorton #parentsupport #communityoutreach

We would love you to come and see how The Branch will serve the community for generations to come. #oxfordshirecharity #charityopendays #chippingnorton

At Connect this week we made little wooden figures dressed in scraps of fabric. Something so simple or otherwise wasted becoming something to be treasured. One group member offered to make one for another group member's daughter "to make her smile during her exams". Beautiful connections across the generations. Connect runs 1-2.30pm every Tuesday during term-time. Next week we will meet at St Mary's Parish Rooms before walking across to our new building on Market Place together at 1.20pm. Do join us to take a look at the beautiful Branch building where our groups will now be held. #connectingthecommunity #creativitymatters #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #chippingnorton

If you’d like a chance to win a weekend at @feldonvalley or to bid on some unusual auction prizes visit Hedges Law's website (link in bio). All funds raised will go to The Branch Trust. The auction and raffle end Thursday 27th June at 8pm! #charityauction #charityfundraising #oxfordshirecharity #charitypartnership #chippingnorton

It's a huge honour to receive this High Sheriff Award as we prepare to open the doors of The Branch! Come along to one of our Open Days for a chance to see how The Branch will serve our community for generations to come. Our Open Days will be held on: Tuesday 25th June: 11am - 1pm, 5.30pm - 7pm Sunday 30th June: 11.30am - 4pm We can be found at 16 Market Place, Chipping Norton. #oxfordshirecharity #highsheriffsaward #westoxfordshire #chippingnorton #ukcharity #charityopenday

Collaboration is so important to our vision at The Branch Trust, and we are thankful to regularly partner with @thrive_northox to support local families. At the moment Thrive are helping us provide school uniforms for those starting at new schools this September. Whatever a family’s situation we believe a child should have the pride of starting their new school in a smart new uniform and shoes. Thank you Thrive for all that you do, you are amazing! #oxfordshirecharity #charitypartnership #familiesinneed #chippingnorton

Our Young Parents Group returns on Thursday at 12.30-2.30pm in our new building on 16 Market Street. (Swipe left for full details) All parents under 21, during pregnancy or with children up to 5 years, are welcome to join us for lunch followed by play, art and craft activities, music and stories. Please come along and invite friends too. #chippingnorton #parentandchildgroups #oxfordshiremums #oxfordshirecharity #youngparentsupport

A big thank you to our fantastic Chipping Norton Fire Crew who came out this week to familiarise themselves with the new layout of The Branch. An amazing team and a blessing to our community.

It's great to see The Branch’s fantastic Community Chef, Nick Pullen, working with young people in the new Community Kitchen at The Branch, teaching them how to make delicious food, good enough to take home and share with the family! The Branch’s apprenticeship ready courses are helping young people develop aspiration, learn new skills and realise their potential. #youthsupport #youthcookingclass #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #westoxfordshire #oxfordshireschools #oxfordshirecharity

We are excited to be welcoming parents who are under 21, during pregnancy or with children up to 5 years, to our new Young Parents Group at The Branch. From Thursday 13th June, 12.30-2.30, we will be sharing lunch together then enjoying play, art & craft activities, music and stories - so come and join us if you can or share with anyone who might be interested. For more information contact Sally: sally.smith@thebranchtrust.org. #youngparentsuk #chippingnorton #parentandtoddlergroup #parentingsupport #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirecharity

At The Branch Trust we want everyone to feel welcome and be able to forge connections and friendships. We all feel lonely at times and having a place to go for companionship and social interaction is so important. Our Connect Café provides just that, alongside our other groups, providing support for wellbeing, learning life skills and more. We would love to see you. Connect Café runs 1-2.30pm every Tuesday during term time at St Mary's Parish Rooms, Church Street, Chipping Norton. #chippingnorton #connectingthecommunity #localgroups #oxfordshirecharity #LonelinessAwarenessWeek

Money can be such a worry can't it? So often we can feel that it is our finances controlling us rather than us being in charge of our finances. Well, help is at hand! It has been so wonderful to run our first new-style CAP Money course with Jonathan Moore as our coach. The course was made up of three workshops where those attending learnt about and shared ideas around building a budget, savvy spending, and saving for the future. We also assessed our 'spending personalities' which provided light bulb moments for many, myself included! One of the group said "I did not expect a course about money to be fun, but I had such a blast! And I learnt so much. I feel really excited now about getting on top of my finances and being able to do more with the money I have". Thank you so much @capuk_org for more great resources and thank you Jonathan for leading us through with such kindness and making it lots of fun! #capuk #moneysavinguk #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #communityoutreach #debtmanagement #moneymindset

This week we celebrate our incredible volunteers. Every week we have over 30 people volunteer in different roles - they make such a difference. Just this Saturday 16 volunteers (from 13 through to 75) gave a day to build these mini kitchens which will be used by so many people in our community kitchen. Not only have they saved us thousands of pounds, it is a wonderful time of the older generations passing on their skills to the youth and young people discovering new talents. Our volunteers are a huge part of building hope and transforming lives. THANK YOU! 🌟 #volunteerweek #volunteerappreciationweek #oxfordshirecharity #ukcharity #intergenerationallearning #communitykitchen #chippingnorton

Minis is back this week! Join us on Wednesday 9.15am - 11.30am in the Parish Rooms as normal. See you there! 🥐☕️🧸🚂 #oxfordshireplaygroups #chippingnorton #oxfordshiremums #westoxfordshire

We are thrilled that over 90% of the office furniture in The Branch has been donated. During the pandemic two London companies clearing their offices contacted us offering us their furniture as they were closing. It has been stored in a barn for 4 years, and this week we have had the fun of unpacking it all – and it has been fabulous, it looks as if it was made to measure. We are so privileged to have such a beautiful building, so wonderfully equipped. We can’t wait to welcome you in! Please join us during our Open Days to take a look around: Tuesday 25th June 11am - 1pm and 5.30pm - 7pm Sunday 30th June 11.30am - 4pm (during Chipping Norton Town Festival) #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity #recycledfurniture #communityhub

We would love you to come and see us. We can’t wait to show you how this beautiful and unique building will serve our community for generations to come - building hope and transforming lives. Our Open Days are: Tuesday 25th June 11am to 1pm and 5.30pm to 7pm Sunday 30th June 11.30am to 4pm We are looking forward to meeting you at one of these! #thebranchtrust #oxfordshirecharity #charityopenday #chippingnorton #ukcharity

Need an idea to keep the children amused this half-term? Why not join this book hunt - there’s one to find at The Branch! #Chippingnorton #bookhunt #oxfordshirekidsactivities

The flowers that the Nurture Gardening group have grown this term have started to bloom and they celebrated on Friday by making these beautiful posies. #nurtureandgrow #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #chippingnorton #supportingourcommunity

What better way to celebrate the move into The Branch than with these fabulous homemade bespoke cookies?! #thebranchtrust #buildingcompletion #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity #westoxfordshire

We're delighted that this event on Sunday 2nd June is supporting The Branch Trust. Do go along and take a look at the beautiful gardens.

Huge congratulations to Joshua for successfully running 20km to raise money for The Branch Trust. After hearing a talk about The Branch at his school Joshua seized the initiative, created a fundraising page and set out on running challenges to raise funds. We are so thankful to him for his energy and initiative - well done! If you’d like to raise money for The Branch we’d love to hear from you. Visit our fundraising page on our website for ideas (link in bio). #charityfundraising #ukcharity #oxfordshirecharity #fundraisingideas #chippingnorton #communityoutreach

We're in The Branch and busy completing the fit-out; making desks, moving furniture and beginning some of the planting in the garden. It's so exciting seeing it all come together! #communityoutreachproject #communityhub #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity #familiesinneed #communitysupport #ukcharity #thebranchtrust

A reminder that there is no Connect Café this week or next. It will return on Tuesday 4th June 1-2.30pm. Join us for tea/coffee, cake and chat and plenty of activities and crafts. #chippingnorton #localgroups #communitysupport #craftingtime

Finally, we have the keys and the furniture is arriving! We can prepare to move into this beautiful newly renovated building. We cannot wait to invite you in and show you around. Look out for Open Day in June or come and see us at the Chipping Norton Town Festival! #chippingnorton #communityoutreachproject #oxfordshirecharity #westoxfordshire #ukcharity #BuildingCompletion

A huge thank you to our amazing cake bakers, baking for 75 weeks for the builders on site! We know they were very grateful for all of the delicious treats which kept them fuelled each week. #buildingsitelife #chippingnorton #volunteerbakers #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreachproject #buildingrenovations

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼! We’re not moving ANYWHERE soon! We’ve poured 100 cubic metres of concrete, 14 tonnes of reinforcement and erected 25 tonnes of structural steelwork to ensure the longevity of The Branch. The Branch has a vision to serve the community for generations to come, helping to overcome barriers and release potential, building hope, transforming lives. #oxfordshirecharity #ukcharity #charitybuilding #communityoutreach #communityhub #chippingnorton #communitysupport #familiesinneed

𝗪𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸, 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀! If you were to lay out all the wood used in the rebuilding of The Branch it would reach 4¼ miles! That’s all the way from The Branch to @daylesfordfarm who sent our first volunteer team to work on The Branch Garden. Two more days until completion when the builders return the keys to The Branch Team. #thebranchtrust #communityoutreachproject #westoxfordshire #chippingnorton #buildingcompletion #buildingrenovation

𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲… we hope to be sending you a picture of the keys very soon! Bringing light and hope - this fabulous new staircase, moved to the centre of The Branch, will pour light into the heart of the building. The new Community Hall at the rear of the building also brings light through a huge central skylight and a rear glass window – almost there! . #renovatoncompletion #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #ukcharity #communitysupport #westoxfordshire

We are very grateful to SSEN, who appeared, on schedule yesterday and worked hard to ensure The Branch is plugged in and powered up. Connecting the power starts a series of other activities that will enable this amazing and life changing project to complete, hopefully next week!! ___________ #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #gettingconnected #communityoutreachproject #oxfordshirecharity #ukcharity

The children had lots of fun at Minis today playing with spaghetti! Please note there'll be no Minis next week. We will meet at the park on New Street on Wednesday 22nd May. Normal Minis will resume after half term on Wednesday 5th June. #chippingnorton #oxfordshireplaygroup #mumandtoddlergroup #westoxfordshire #sensoryplaytime #communitygroups

We had lots of fun crafting at Connect last week. We're back tomorrow 1-2.30pm in the Parish Rooms. Join us for crafts and activities or simply a tea/coffee and a chat. #thebranchtrust #connectingthecommunity #communityoutreach #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #localgroups

The garden floor is almost there… with a washroom that looks all set to go. This large room will be amazing rentable office space, surrounded by glass, letting in sunlight and a view of what will be a beautifully planted garden. #oxfordshirecharity #communityhub #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #rentalofficespace

Who enjoys it when a football match goes to extra time? There’s normally initial disappointment, followed by a lot of excitement. That is where we find ourselves at the moment at The Branch. We had hoped to be in last Friday, but now find ourselves in the period of “extra time”, but the disappointment is being eclipsed by all the amazing work that is happening on site as a building site transforms into a very beautiful home for The Branch. ___________________ #BuildingRenovationJourney #OxfordshireCharity #ChippingNorton #ChristianCharity #CommunityHub #WestOxfordshire

This week we hosted one of the new @capuk_org money workshops where a group explored 'spending personalities', bank accounts and how to make a budget. As usual, the material from CAP (Christians Against Poverty) was excellent and our new money coach, Jonathan, led us through the session with humour and expertise. One of the group said "Wow, I had such a light bulb moment as to what makes me spend, I'll be much more aware now!". We're looking forward to next week's session. . . . . . #thebranchtrust #capuk #moneymanagment #chippingnorton #oxfordshire #communityoutreach #christiansagainstpoverty #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirecharity

It was wonderful to be supported through the fabulous sale at @thebellcharlbury last week! Huge thanks to @alexgorebrowne_shop, @bamford, @daylesfordfarm and all those who came along to support. #thebranchtrust #charityfundraising #communityoutreach #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #charlbury

Pause the Countdown, we need Connection! We are so nearly there and are delighted to say that The Branch is looking fantastic, and the whole team is working incredibly hard to get the building ready… we are so thankful for all of your support and we are nearly there – we just need to get connected! The main electricity connection and meter installation is, unfortunately, dependent on external agencies. I am sure you are all aware that grid connection delays have hampered many projects. We thought we had escaped this, but we are now left waiting on our electricity distributor and retail supplier to make the final electrical connection before the certificate of ‘Practical Completion’ can be granted and insurance put in place. Thank you SO much for your support and for all the hard work of every single contractor who is working frantically on site to get us in. It’s frustrating that there is one final hurdle, but we will let you know as soon as we are connected! #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #buildingcompletion #buildingrenovation #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #ukcharity

𝟯 𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼! 90 boxes! "Why?" you may ask. All will be revealed in May. We look forward to showing you around The Branch. Look out for invitations to our Open Days in late May and June. #thebranchtrust #charitybuilding #openingcountdown #oxfordshire #chippingnorton #cotswoldcharity #communitysupport

𝟰 𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼! Introducing our Community Chef We are so excited to have Nick Pullen as our Community Chef. For 3 years now Nick has been working on Branch Out & Cook, engaging with young people not in full time education and equipping them with budgeting and cooking life skills whilst building their self-esteem. In the new Community Kitchen we will have the opportunity to expand and grow this work. 4 days until we can once more use The Branch and prepare it to serve the community. #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #westoxfordshire #communitykitchen #communitychef #youthcookingskills #communityoutreach #oxfordshirecharity

𝟱 𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼... We’re aiming high! If we were to tower up all the bricks we have used it would stretch 912 metres into the sky – that is 84 metres higher than Burj Khalifa in Dubai, currently the tallest building in the world. There's just 5 more days until we receive the keys to The Branch once more. #thebranchtrust #buildingrenovationuk #westoxfordshire #chippingnortoncotswolds #oxfordshirecharity #outreachcharity #openingcountdown

Getting ready to cook for large numbers. A big shout out to Ricardo from Reading Nisbets for all his patience and advice. 6 days until we receive the keys to The Branch once more! #thebranchtrust #communitykitchen #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #westoxfordshire #cookeryschool #communityoutreach #ukcharity

Considerable digging has taken place to make The Branch accessible to all! 330 cubic metres of soil has been excavated – that’s 500 tonnes, or over 160 elephants, all carried through the building on an escalator or by hand and out the front door and onto a waiting truck. Only one week to go until the builders hand the keys back to us!! . . . . . #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #ukcharity #oxfordshirecharity #renovationcompletion #buildingrenovation #communityoutreach #westoxfordshire #christiancharity #oxfordshire #lovethyneighbouruk

The Branch sign is now in place on the front of the building. We're one step closer to completion! #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #buildingrenovation #oxfordshirecharity #ukcharity #buildingcompletion #westoxfordshire

We're back! Connect returns tomorrow, Tuesday 16th April at 1pm and Minis will be back on Wednesday 17th April at 9.15am both in St Mary's Parish Rooms, Church Street. Join us for lots of fun, tea, coffee and chat. #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #oxfordshireplaygoup #communitygroups #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirecharity

2 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼! Did you know 1 in 3 mental health problems in adulthood are directly related to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)? At The Branch we recognise that it is crucial to take this trauma-informed approach in the support we offer, so today we are spending time with staff & volunteers embedding this training. Two weeks to go until the builders hand the keys of The Branch back to us, paving the way for us to move in to serve the community from the heart of the town. Make sure you're following @thebranchtrust to keep up with all of the updates. #thebranchtrust #mentalhealthsupportoxfordshire #oxfordshirecharity #communityoutreach #chippingnorton

We are delighted to be receiving a £10,000 grant from @westoxfordshiredistrictcouncil to help equip our Music Recording Studio. We are excited for the new ways this will enable us to engage with young people through our Branch Out Music Project. #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirechariry #oxfordshireyouth #communityoutreach #ukcharity

A reminder that there is no Connect Café or Minis again this week. They will both return next week when the Oxfordshire school term resumes. #thebranchtrust #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #communityoutreach #ukcharity #oxfordshireplaygroups

3 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼! Collaboration is at the heart of the vision for The Branch. This vision began with the creation of networks, one around the under 5's and another around vulnerable families, providing a forum to share expertise, pool resources and maximise the level of support they could collectively offer. This desire to optimise resources will resonate through The Branch as agencies come together to serve the most deprived neighbourhood in West Oxfordshire. Early intervention: The Under 5's Network has been held up as a model to share elsewhere in Oxfordshire – if problems can be spotted early for a child or family, there is more chance of being able to help make the changes that will enable them to thrive. #thebranchtrust #communityhub #oxfordshirecharity #outreachcharity #ukcharity #chippingnorton #communitysupport #familiesinneed #transforminglives #unlockingpotential #under5s #westoxfordshire #workingcollaboratively

At Minis this week we heard the story of Easter and made some beautiful cards. We are taking a two week break now during the school holidays and will be back on Wednesday 17th April. Happy Easter from the Minis team! 🐣🌷 #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #westoxfordshire #oxfordshiremumandbaby #oxfordshiremums #playgroupsoxfordshire

Yesterday we were making Spring posies at Connect Café to celebrate the joy of Easter. 💐 Please note Connect has now finished for Easter and will return on Tuesday 16th April. #thebranchtrust #eastercrafts #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity #ukcharity #communityoutreach

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼! 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀... The vision for The Branch, to create a community hub at the heart of Chipping Norton - tackling rural isolation and restoring access to vital services for our community, is soon to be realised!! Just one month from now we will be moving into the newly renovated building. Formerly known to many as the NatWest bank building, 16 Market Place will become a Community Hub, drawing vital services back into our town, where those in need can seek and find practical and emotional help, barriers can be overcome and potential unlocked - building hope, transforming lives. Join us as we countdown the weeks, and then the days, and then walk through the building with us as we take you through the keyhole and reveal what each space in the building will enable. #thebranchtrust #communityhub #oxfordshirecharity #outreachcharity #ukcharity #chippingnorton #communitysupport #familiesinneed #transforminglives #unlockingpotential

We had a wonderful time making beautiful marbled Easter eggs at Connect Cafe this week. There was lots of laughter and excitement to try a new craft. If you would like to make friends, get support, or try something new, why not join us? Tuesdays in term time 1pm at St Mary's Parish Rooms, Church Street. #thebranchtrust #connectingthecommunity #communityoutreach #chippingnorton #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirecharity #learnanewcraft #craftingfun #eastercrafting

We have lift-off” (or should that be “we have lift-in”?!) Last week saw the installation of the lift connecting the ground floor, lower ground floor and the first floor, although these photos were taken on Thursday before the doors were fitted. Another key step in the fit-out phase achieved… this one taking just three days! #thebranchtrust #buildingrenovation #oxfordshirecharity #chippingnorton #communityhub #oxfordshire

This week is Debt Awareness Week across the UK. So many people nationwide, and right here in our own community, are struggling under the weight of debt; making difficult choices between heating their homes, eating a meal, or being able to transport their children to school. At The Branch Trust we are passionate about helping people find a journey out of debt, and supporting them to create a realistic and sustainable budget and make informed decisions about money. We partner with local churches and @capuk_org (Christians Against Poverty) to run a Debt Centre, money courses, and Life Skills groups; we host a help desk at our Connect Café where people can get advice around utilities and bills (amongst many other things), and we also host a fortnightly Citizen’s Advice surgery. This month CAP have released a new guide to help people improve their finances – do take a look at www.capuk.org/guide for invaluable practical advice and how to get help if you need it. #thebranchtrust #debtawarenessweek #debtawarenessuk #christiansagainstpoverty #chippingnorton #lifeskillsclass #debtmanagementuk

With the sunny weather and emerging spring flowers we were feeling cheerful at Connect last week. We continued to put a spring in our step with some colourful crafts getting ready for Easter. Join us tomorrow 1-2.30pm in St Mary's Parish Rooms for more crafts and games and of course plenty of coffee, cake and chat. Please note Connect will break for Easter on Tuesday 26th March, returning on 16th April.

Today, on International Women's Day, which this year is all about 'inspiring inclusion', we give thanks for all the women we have had the privilege of getting to know through our work with The Branch: The mothers we have met through the Nurture Room or Parent Drop-in. The women who have courageously joined a DA support group or taken the step to sign up to CAP Debt Centre. The women who have come through Life Skills and Kintsugi, those who have gone on to volunteer or seek employment. The women who have led or got involved with all the creative activities. All the women who make Connect what it is - a safe, supportive, vibrant space. The women who have stepped forward to lead, mentor, advise. Those who have reached out for help. All the women - who bring their vulnerability, strength, determination, compassion, humanity, love, laughter, joy. All the women who have shared their stories with us and all those who will in the years to come. We give thanks for you all. We celebrate your differences, we embrace your commonality. All of you inspire inclusion. Thank you, from The Branch. #iwd2024 #inspireinclusion #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #oxfordshirecharity #empoweringwomenuk

Good progress is being made in the ‘fit-out’ phase of the building works, with wood panelling of the Community Hall, acoustic ceiling panelling of the co-worker rented office space and the last areas of drylining and plastering now nearing completion. Very soon the plasterers will move out and the decorators will move in! Oh, and the new front and rear doors are on site now too. . . . . . . #thebranchtrust #oxfordshirecharity #communityhub #communityoutreach #listedbuildingrenovation #chippingnnorton #ukcharity #fitoutphase

Do you know the perfect person for either of these two exciting new roles at The Branch Trust? We would love you to spread the word… FINANCE MANAGER We are excited to offer this new position in the team as our charity grows and moves into new premises. As Finance Manager at The Branch Trust, you will play a pivotal role in managing financial operations, ensuring compliance, and contributing to strategic financial decision-making. Leveraging your AAT Level 3 or 4 qualification, you will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, conducting analysis, and supporting the overall financial health of the organisation. FACILITIES COORDINATOR / CARETAKER The Branch Trust is looking to recruit this key member of the team as we are excited to move into our new premises. The Facilities Coordinator / Caretaker will be responsible for overseeing the efficient and safe operation of physical facilities, including the building, equipment and garden. They will work alongside the Outreach Team and hirers to ensure that the spaces are clean and equipped appropriately. The role will involve managing and supporting the maintenance, security and functionality of the Branch Trust’s physical assets, as well as general caretaking & cleaning duties. For full details or to apply for either of these roles please visit our link in bio. . . . . . . . #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #charityjobs #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirejobs #oxfordshirecharity #christiancharity #ukcharity #cotswoldjobs

The beginning of the Branch garden transformation. Swipe to see what the garden looked like just two weeks ago. A huge thank you to the @daylesfordfarm volunteer team! . . . . #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #charitygarden #gardentransformation #communityoutreach #oxfordshirecharity #ukcharity #westoxfordshire #daylesfordfarm

These concerts have a growing reputation and are now part of the Dean & Chadlington Summer Music Festival. This Friday a concert is generously being held in aid of The Branch Trust and will hopefully be a magical evening. Please spread the word. More information and details of how to purchase tickets can be found in the link in our bio.

Do you know the perfect person for either of these two exciting new roles at The Branch Trust? We would love you to spread the word… FINANCE MANAGER We are excited to offer this new position in the team as our charity grows and moves into new premises. As Finance Manager at The Branch Trust, you will play a pivotal role in managing financial operations, ensuring compliance, and contributing to strategic financial decision-making. Leveraging your AAT Level 3 or 4 qualification, you will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, conducting analysis, and supporting the overall financial health of the organisation. FACILITIES COORDINATOR / CARETAKER The Branch Trust is looking to recruit this key member of the team as we are excited to move into our new premises. The Facilities Coordinator / Caretaker will be responsible for overseeing the efficient and safe operation of physical facilities, including the building, equipment and garden. They will work alongside the Outreach Team and hirers to ensure that the spaces are clean and equipped appropriately. The role will involve managing and supporting the maintenance, security and functionality of the Branch Trust’s physical assets, as well as general caretaking & cleaning duties. For full details or to apply for either of these roles please visit or link in bio. . . . . . . . #thebranchtrust #chippingnorton #charityjobs #westoxfordshire #oxfordshirejobs #oxfordshirecharity #christiancharity #ukcharity #cotswoldjobs