Unlike other youth groups, Woodcraft is not based upon any particular religious belief or national identity. We welcome all young people whether they have a religious background or none and much of our work emphasises the importance of international understanding and fellowship. The principles of peace and co-operation are therefore central to everything we do and we endeavour to develop in our members an understanding of some of the issues behind global poverty and conflict in the belief that will make them better world citizens.
We are closely linked to the co-operative movement and enjoy excellent relations with the Oxford, Swindon and Gloucester Co-op, who generously provide part of our funding.
We are also a highly democratic organisation and though our adult volunteers use the title of "leader" all our members play an active part in the decision-making process, from planning their weekly group activities to deiding where to go on camp. There is no permanent leader of Oxford Woodcraft and decisions are taken on a collective basis.
The well-being of our young people comes before everything else. All our volunteers are checked with the Criminal Records Bureau and there is in place a child protection policy, based on best practice advice from our national network. Health and safety considerations are taken very seriously, both at our weekly group meetings and on camp.
Community participation is very important to us. We play an active part in the Cowley Road Carnival, a major feature of the annual calendar in East Oxford. The banner was made during one of our weekly group meetings.
