Christmas cheer all round at Leys CDI Christmas gathering in Oxford

Guests were invited to enjoy a delicious Christmas meal, complete with lots of festive cheer and the chance to connect with others in the community. 

The afternoon was buzzing with conversation and laughter, providing a chance to celebrate the people who make the Leys such a special place. Energy was high for a music quiz, there were free raffle tickets on offer and Santa even made an appearance.

Dinner included turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings, served with plenty of gravy and a tasty side of mac and cheese, followed by apple pie and mince pies for dessert. 

Bringing people together

The event brought together senior members of local charity Leys CDI Clockhouse activities programme, working partners and friends of CDI. 

Guests included representatives from Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Football Club, trustees and supporters of Leys CDI, members of the Peabody Community Foundation and many more.

The celebration took place at The Barn, which is owned by not-for-profit housing association Peabody – the two organisations have had a long-standing partnership, with Peabody providing support over the years, including with funding and spaces for activities.

Leys CDI was founded in 1995 and brings people together to build a sense of community, tackle social issues and improve the lives of local people. CDI works with both ends of the age spectrum, youths aged 9-21 and seniors aged 55 years upwards, often bringing both age groups together for intergenerational activities. It holds a wide range of activities at The Clockhouse in Leys - from Zumba and yoga for older people, to gardening sessions, social get togethers and a youth club. 

For people who regularly visit the centre, it’s a place to connect, share stories, and feel part of the community

One senior Clockhouse member and guest at the event said: “The day was truly wonderful. The opportunity to get out and enjoy a fantastic Christmas meal with lovely people is so special. I have made so many new friends this year at both Tai-Chi and seated yoga and the opportunity to enjoy today with them was great. I also won a raffle prize!”

Sophie Hawley, a Community Investment Lead at Peabody, said: “It was wonderful to see everyone together. The room felt warm and relaxed. At a time of year when isolation is common, creating friendly, welcoming spaces and events around connection is so important.”

Kirk Wheeler from Leys CDI said: “The Leys CDI Christmas meal is always a highlight of the year, but this one felt especially magical. Maybe it was the fact that 114 seniors, friends and partners of CDI arrived set on having fun and lighting the room up with laughter. Whatever it was, it reminded me, again, why the Leys community is so special.”