There are moments in community work that remind us why we do what we do—why we persist through challenges, stretch limited resources, and keep showing up. One such moment unfolded this autumn, as Leys CDI and the Oxford Community Rail Partnership (OXCRP) came together once again to offer a group of young people from the Leys a day of exploration, creativity, and connection.
For many of the young participants, train travel is a novelty—something unfamiliar, even daunting. But on this crisp school holiday morning, excitement buzzed through the group as they boarded the train to Banbury. This was more than a journey across Oxfordshire; it was a journey into new experiences, new landscapes, and new confidence.
Upon arrival, the group set off on a nature walk along the riverbank and canal ways, guided by curiosity and the changing colours of the season. Autumn’s chill couldn’t dampen their enthusiasm as they observed wildlife, collected leaves, and shared stories. The walk wasn’t just about nature—it was about presence, about noticing, about being part of something bigger than oneself.
The day’s second half unfolded in the warm, welcoming space of Banbury Town Hall, where the young people, ‘armed with hot chocolate’, became co-creators. With support from OXCRP and Leys CDI staff, they designed nature-themed quizzes, scavenger hunts, and observation activities for future youth train travellers. Their ideas were imaginative, thoughtful, and rooted in their lived experience—proof that when young people are trusted and empowered, they rise to the occasion.
Sarah, one of the participants, said with a proud smile, “It’s really exciting to be asked to design something that we know will be used to give other young people a fun time on their trips.”
And Zoe added, “I hope that if they [OXCRP] print my name [as credit], people will know I designed the fun bits of the programme.”
The day concluded with a well-earned hot lunch at a local restaurant—a chance to warm up, reflect, and celebrate. For some, it was their first time dining out in a new town. For all, it was a moment of shared joy and accomplishment.
This was the third collaborative train trip between Leys CDI and OXCRP, and each one has deepened our belief in the power of partnership. OXCRP doesn’t just consult communities—they build with them. They listen, adapt, and co-create. They understand that reaching those who are often overlooked means meeting them where they are, on their terms, and weaving their priorities into the fabric of the project.
The benefits of this day were many: increased confidence in navigating public transport, a deeper connection to nature, and the pride of contributing to something meaningful. But perhaps most importantly, it was a day that said to each young person: You matter. Your voice matters. Your ideas can shape a positive future.
We are deeply grateful to OXCRP, Alayne McDonald and Amy Russell for their continued partnership, and we look forward to many more journeys—on tracks, through nature, and into the hearts of our communities.
