- Oxford News By HANA
- Posts
- Oxford News By Hana Edition 79
Oxford News By Hana Edition 79
Your good health!
Mark Skipworth
November 05, 2026
In partnership with
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 79
Oxford Outlook: Your good health!
Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here for instant sign-up.
Plans to abolish an independent health watchdog in Oxfordshire have been dropped, we learn this week. Common sense, it seems, has prevailed.
The government was seeking to close down Healthwatch Oxfordshire, a charitable body supporting users of health and care services in the county, along with 150 other branches of the national network earmarked for the chop.
But last week, the government reversed its decision, instead calling for a strengthened Healthwatch "so that patients' and public experiences play a greater role in improving health and social care services”. Gosh.
The reprieve for Healthwatch Oxfordshire saves the roles of six members of staff, six volunteers and seven trustees, according to the Oxford Mail. Just in the nick of time, you might think, before the wrecking ball comes crashing down.
By any measure, the health watchdog provides a valuable service. In Oxfordshire alone, there are at least 60 GP practices, in general independent private businesses reliant on NHS funding that are more or less a law unto themselves.
At my local GP practice, for example, the last full inspection by the Care Quality Commission, the statutory regulator, was a woeful 10 years ago, long before the Covid epidemic and its far-reaching aftermath.
Such a lengthy delay in carrying out an overdue inspection is not uncommon – and deeply concerning. Which is where Healthwatch Oxfordshire comes in and helps to mitigate, if not eradicate, the problem.
Its teams have a legal right to visit and observe in action publicly-funded GP practices as well as dental surgeries, community pharmacists, NHS trusts and even local authorities, speaking with patients and interviewing staff. They audit health websites and triage tools, check on opening hours and booking instructions for appointments, and more besides. In short, they see what is working well and highlight what improvements are needed.
A senior Healthwatch Oxfordshire executive, reacting to the news of the government U-turn, said she was "delighted" the watchdog was able to continue its "vital work listening to local people and amplifying their voices”. And we should be delighted, too.
* The still mists have returned this autumn, lingering in the shallow ‘bowl’ of Oxford. I mention this because Sunday is also Remembrance Sunday when communities right across the county come together to honour and remember all those who lost their lives, suffered injury or were affected by conflict or war.
At the War Memorial in Oxford’s St Giles, which will be closed to traffic for the morning, prayers and readings from the city’s diverse faiths will be held along with a two-minute silence and the laying of wreaths.
But the neck-tingling moment for me, as ever, will be the sounding of the Last Post. On a crisp, misty morning in the centre of our beautiful university city, there can surely be nowhere more poignant to commemorate the best of us than this.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
Make Oxford an even better community - share Oxford by Hana with friends and family for a more informed and better run city - local news and views you can use - forward this link for instant sign up
Databox
This newsletter has previously touched on the southern tech arc which spans from Bristol through Oxford and on to Cambridge.
It’s time to delve deeper into the data. How do these three super-smart cities compare? In we go:
Economics
Employment rate (2023)
Oxford: 80.8%
Cambridge: 76.3%
Bristol: 76.1%
Gross median weekly pay (2025)
Cambridge: £764
Oxford: £690
Bristol: £671
Housing
Average house price (August 2026)
Oxford: £478,080
Cambridge: £470,360
Bristol: £353,596
Education
Further education and skills participation per 100,000 population (2025)
Bristol: 3,820
Oxford: 3,730
Cambridge: 2,521
GCSEs in English and Maths (2025)
Cambridge: 80.4%
Bristol: 70.1%
Oxford: 69.3%
Connectivity (2026)
Ultrafast broadband
Cambridge: 95.1%
Bristol: 94.1%
Oxford: 82.5%
Student population
Bristol: 32,435 (University of Bristol)
Undergraduates: 23,865
Postgraduates: 8,570
International students: 11,000 (34%)
Oxford: 26,800
Undergraduates: 12,460
Postgraduates: 13,755
International students: 43%
Cambridge: 24,927
Undergraduates: 12,850
Postgraduates: 12,080
International students: c9,000
University research income
Oxford: £801 million
Cambridge: £618 million
Bristol: £353 million
Proximity to London (by train)
Cambridge: 1hr 1min (one change)
Oxford: 1hr 1min (one change)
Bristol: 1hr 37mins (direct)
Pick the bones out of those numbers. A trio of terrific cities, contributing to the nation’s wealth, health and happiness in their own ways. But quite how Oxford’s research income is more than double Bristol’s beggars belief. Then again, the fact it dwarfs the Cambridge contribution is a source of comfort and joy.
Sources: ONS, The Russell Group, Universities of Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford, Trainline
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
‘Smelly’ Sutton Courtenay landfill site set to close by 2030 BBC News - November 4, 2026 FCC Environment has announced plans to close the Greenways Landfill site in Appleford Sidings by 2030, following persistent odour complaints and a significant fire that affected nearby communities. Council officers have recommended refusing FCC's proposal to extend operations until 2039, citing over 1,000 complaints from residents regarding disruptions to their quality of life. |
Doctor facing £5,000 traffic penalties despite Oxford error Oxford Mail - November 4, 2026 Dr. Hasanen Al-Taiar, a forensic psychiatrist in Oxford, has faced 49 Penalty Charge Notices totalling £4,940 due to an administrative error by Oxfordshire County Council, which has acknowledged its mistake but continues to issue fines. Advocating for a more flexible traffic enforcement approach for healthcare professionals engaged in urgent NHS work, Dr. Al-Taiar highlights the need for individual circumstances to be considered in automated systems. |
Plans to scrap Oxfordshire health watchdog dropped Oxford Mail - November 3, 2026 The government has decided to retain Healthwatch Oxfordshire, ensuring the continued operation of this essential independent health and social care watchdog, which is vital for patient engagement and accountability. Health Secretary Yvette Cooper reaffirmed the commitment to both Healthwatch England and its local branches, highlighting the importance of preserving trusted organisations for sharing healthcare experiences. |
Oxford hospitals parking petition: 'voices will be heard' BBC News - November 5, 2026 Oxfordshire county councillor David Henwood who has launched a petition, gaining nearly 2,000 signatures, advocating for multi-storey car parks at the John Radcliffe and Churchill Hospitals to address significant parking issues impacting patients and visitors, says signatories ‘voices will be heard’. In response, Oxford University Hospitals Trust cites site constraints and planning policies as barriers to expansion. |
Expert warns bonfire mistakes could lead to £50,000 fines This is Oxfordshire - November 4, 2026 With Bonfire Night upon us, homeowners in Oxfordshire are being told to adhere to government guidelines regarding bonfires to avoid hefty fines and potential imprisonment; only safe materials like dry, untreated wood should be burned while prohibited items can lead to harmful emissions. Staying informed and compliant with local regulations is essential for ensuring safety, mitigating nuisances and protecting the environment. See ‘What’s On?’ below for lists of Bonfire Night events across the county. |
Oxfordshire inquiry calls as school transport delays ongoing Oxford Mail - November 4, 2026 Families of children with disabilities in Oxfordshire are facing significant disruptions in special educational needs transport services, leading to long commutes and job impacts, despite assurances from the county council for resolution by the end of October. An independent inquiry has been sought to address ongoing issues, including communication failures and the financial implications of unutilised school placements. |
Oxfordshire cuts may 'force choice between food and hospital' Oxford Mail - November 3, 2026 Oxfordshire's Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC) group protested against the county council's proposed reductions to Disability Related Expenditure and new charges for transport and care services, which aim to save £1.8 million amid a projected £5.4 million funding gap. Despite significant opposition, the council's cabinet approved these measures, with further discussions planned to ensure transparency as they navigate financial challenges. |
Oxfordshire mum calls for routine strep tests during pregnancies BBC News - November 5, 2026 Leona Hayes from Oxfordshire is advocating for routine Group B streptococcus (GBS) screening for pregnant women in the UK, highlighting the potential risks associated with undetected GBS following her own diagnosis. Her campaign, supported by a petition to Downing Street, coincides with the UK National Screening Committee's review of screening recommendations, aiming to enhance maternity services and improve outcomes for mothers and infants. |
AbbVie invests £120m in new Oxford life sciences facility Pharmaphorum - November 4, 2026 AbbVie's £120 million investment in a new R&D facility in Oxford underscores the growing optimism in the UK life sciences sector, following a £1 billion commitment from various pharma companies. This strategic move aims to enhance research capabilities in immunology, neuroscience and oncology, leveraging the Oxford ‘eco-system’ as part of the UK's 'golden triangle' while promoting collaboration and innovation in drug development. |
Oxford cinema shortlisted as UK's best as it fights for future BBC News - November 4, 2026 The Ultimate Picture Palace (UPP) in Oxford, a historic independent cinema founded in 1911, has been nominated for the 2026 Cinema of the Year award at the British Independent Film Awards, highlighting its dedication to independent and classic films. Following a community-driven initiative that raised over £366,000, the UPP continues to thrive as a vital cultural hub despite ongoing challenges to its long-term viability. |
Raise the Colours founder Ryan Bridge pleads not guilty BBC News - November 3, 2026 Ryan Bridge, co-founder of the nationalist group Raise the Colours, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including racially aggravated harassment and assault, following incidents in Oxfordshire. He is scheduled for a court appearance on December 3, facing several serious charges stemming from events that took place earlier this year. |
Cotswold Wildlife Park rhinos celebrate their first birthday BBC News - November 1, 2026 Cotswold Wildlife Park celebrated the first birthday of rhino calves Markus and Mo, who were born in 2025 and have grown from 70kg to around 500kg, bringing the park's rhino population to a record high of nine. The park underscores the importance of continued conservation efforts for white rhinos, whose population has rebounded from near extinction in the early 1900s, yet remains vulnerable. |
New recycling centre 'will not increase traffic' Yahoo News - November 3, 2026 Oxfordshire County Council is set to invest £6m in a modern household waste recycling centre near the Bicester Park and Ride site, enhancing accessibility for residents while improving traffic flows. In the interim, authorities are implementing a booking system for local recycling centres amidst upcoming closures to ensure continued access to waste disposal services. |
Dozens of illegal e-bikes and e-scooters seized in Oxford BBC News - November 3, 2026 Thames Valley Police (TVP) recently seized 35 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters in Oxford, many of which had been modified to exceed legal speed limits. Highlighting safety concerns for riders and the public, TVP underscored the necessity of enforcing current legislation that prohibits the use of privately owned e-scooters on public roads and pathways. |
Four kittens dumped on A34 lay-by without their mother This is Oxfordshire - November 4, 2026 Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary is urgently appealing for donations of specific cat food and litter as it cares for a record 98 cats and kittens, following the abandonment of four kittens found near the A34. The sanctuary emphasises the importance of responsible pet ownership and encourages pet owners facing challenges to seek assistance from local rescue organisations rather than resorting to abandonment. |
Historic village church damaged as thieves set off fire extinguishers Witney Gazette - November 3, 2026 Thames Valley Police are investigating a burglary and vandalism incident at St Giles Church in Standlake, which occurred between November 1 and November 2, resulting in theft and significant damage. The police are urging the public to report any suspicious activity during this time by calling 101 and quoting reference number 43260572872. |
'We're putting virtual Oxford on the map' BBC News - October 31, 2026 Young game designers Kam Mughal and Neo Mendes have successfully launched "Oxford Roleplay" on Roblox, a virtual recreation of Oxford that has attracted over 7.4 million players since its debut in August 2025. The game offers an immersive experience with diverse roles for users, while the developers remain committed to ongoing improvements, emphasising their passion for game development and increasing global awareness of the iconic city. |
Sport
Oxford Outlook: U’s bathe in the yellow glow
Oxford United 2 v 0 Reading (League One, 4/11/26)
The U’s secured a big win over League One promotion rivals Reading at the Kassam on Wednesday night.
It followed Saturday’s disappointing 1-1 draw away at struggling Barnsley. But vital victories against teams at the top are really what count. Six-pointers, as the pundits put it.
Promotion is a proper prospect for United. They have a game in hand over league leaders Huddersfield Town. Win that and they are into the top two automatic promotion places.
League One: Top Three
1 Huddersfield Town (29 points)
2 Stockport County (26 points)
3 Oxford United (26 points)
The Sports Desk
Introducing Fair Game from Vanity Fair
Join Mark Guiducci for a series of wide-ranging conversations with cultural leaders from the worlds of Hollywood, Politics, Style, Silicon Valley, and beyond.
On every episode, Vanity Fair pulls back the curtain on how some of the most interesting and powerful minds in our society work – and where they see us going. On Fair Game from Vanity Fair, no subject is off limits.
Property news
Sydney Sweeney views Cotswolds home amid 'secret' move to Oxfordshire Witney Gazette - November 4, 2026 Actress Sydney Sweeney is considering a move to Little Tew in the Cotswolds, driven by her appreciation for the area's tranquil lifestyle and recent visits, including a Christmas stay at the upscale Soho Farmhouse. Local residents are enthusiastic about the prospect of her relocation, citing the village's charm and celebrity presence as appealing factors. |
Plans unveiled for 700-home development sparks concern Oxford Mail - November 3, 2026 West Oxfordshire District Council's long-term growth plan for Witney, extending to 2043, includes significant developments such as new employment land and a primary school, but concerns over inadequate existing infrastructure have emerged. District Councillor Liam Mackenzie calls for enhanced connectivity and services, including a full supermarket, to be addressed prior to advancing further housing projects. |
Reach Oxford’s most discerning property investors - to list your property here, contact [email protected]
Target Hair Thinning Where it Begins—at the Cellular Level
There are many products for hair thinning on the market, but they don’t all deliver on their claims. OneSkin’s OS-01 HAIR SCALP SERUM is the only peptide-powered scalp formula scientifically proven to target cellular senescence, a leading driver of age-related thinning, for thicker hair over time.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
All the South Oxfordshire Bonfire Nights and fireworks displays listed Oxford Mail - November 3, 2026 South Oxfordshire will celebrate Bonfire Night with a variety of community events on November 6 and 7, including fireworks displays at Cholsey Cricket Field, Grove Recreation Ground and Chinnor School, alongside family-friendly activities and food vendors. Notably, the Abingdon Funfair & Fireworks at Abingdon Airfield promises to be the UK's largest fireworks show, complemented by an extensive fairground experience. |
West Oxfordshire Bonfire Night events listed Witney Gazette - November 3, 2026 Join the festivities this November with a range of fireworks events: the Witney Lakes Fireworks Night on Friday, November 6, from 6 PM to 10 PM, featuring food and entertainment, and the Ducklington Fireworks Spectacular on Sunday, November 8, with family-friendly activities including a children's display. Additionally, don't miss the annual Hanborough Musical Fireworks in Long Hanborough on the same evening, with timings to be confirmed. |
Ramayana: Rise of a Legend to screen at Vue Oxford This is Oxfordshire - November 4, 2026 "Ramayana: Rise of a Legend", directed by Nitesh Tiwari, will debut at Vue Oxford during the Diwali weekend from November 6 to 8. This visually stunning re-telling of the epic features a stellar cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi, exploring the fates of Rama and Ravana, with an English-dubbed version available for audiences. |
Oxford Beethoven Festival announces 2027 programme Oxford Mail - November 4, 2026 The year-long festival celebrating the 200th anniversary of the great composer's death will feature over 25 concerts in Oxford with renowned artists like Martha Argerich and Yuja Wang, culminating in a complete presentation of Beethoven's symphonic cycle and all 32 Piano Sonatas. Select performances will take place at such prestigious venues as the Sheldonian Theatre and Holywell Music Room. |
Shania Twain to headline Blenheim Palace Festival in 2027 BBC News - November 2, 2026 Shania Twain, the celebrated country music icon and five-time Grammy winner, will headline the Blenheim Palace Festival on June 29, 2027, following a successful inaugural year featuring artists like Katy Perry. The festival, which has replaced the Nocturne Live concert series, continues to attract top talent, with excitement from management regarding Twain's impactful music and participation. |
This newsletter was partly curated and summarised by AI agents, who can make mistakes. Check all vital information.
For any issues or inaccuracies, please notify us here
View our AI Ethics Policy