Oxford City Council has made progress on 35 out of 39 pledges to make the city fairer.

The council, along with its wholly-owned companies ODS and OX Place, have exceeded their original 13 commitments made in summer 2023 as part of the Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Partnership (OIEP).

The annual audit, completed earlier this month, shows the council's dedication to making the city's economy work for everyone.

The council and its associated companies have delivered on commitments across five key themes.

These include supporting the local and social economy, creating employment opportunities, inclusive recruitment practices, improving training and educational attainment, and providing fairer wages.

Councillor Susan Brown, leader of Oxford City Council, said: "I’m really delighted with the progress that we have made this first year.

"The pledges have meant real focus on what needs to be done to improve inclusivity and fairness in our city and to support small businesses locally.

"Our progress across these pledges, those we committed to and beyond, demonstrates our dedication to creating an economy that benefits everyone in Oxford.

"This is one of our key priorities as a council."

The council has made social value a significant part of its procurement process, now accounting for 20 per cent of its procurement criteria.

ODS has shown its commitment to local businesses, with 73.07 per cent of its 2023/24 spending going to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and 59.63 per cent to local suppliers.

The "Match My Project" platform, launched in November 2023, has connected 83 businesses with 50 community organisations, enhancing employment and social value opportunities.

The council and ODS are recognised as Disability Confident Employers, demonstrating leadership in inclusivity and support for employees with disabilities.

The council continues to support employees volunteering in the community, with ODS introducing a staff volunteering bank offering 200 hours for community projects.

Oxford City Council has launched new inclusive recruitment guidance and training, ensuring that hiring practices are free from bias and accessible to all.

Oxford City Council and ODS have supported work experience placements with schools, including work with EMBS College, Cherwell School, and others to provide essential career advice and training opportunities.

The council has pledged up to 25 per cent of its unused Apprenticeship Levy, approximately £72,126, to support small businesses and apprenticeships across Oxford.

ODS has pledged £48,084 of the Apprenticeship Levy and advocates for apprentices within the business to help support the growth of apprenticeships in the city.

Oxford City Council and ODS continue to be Oxford Living Wage employers and champion a liveable wage for all.

More than 25,000 employees from 100 employers have benefitted from wage increases since the implementation of the Oxford Living Wage.