The Sun Fund in Banbury aims to help young people into work

The Sun Fund, launching in Banbury, aims to support young people aged 16 to 25 by creating clearer pathways to skills development and job opportunities.

The fund will be launched on Thursday, March 26, at Broughton Castle, with the backing of business leaders, politicians, and community figures.

Sam Greaves, managing director of Cleenol Group and leader of the Sun Fund, said: “Banbury is a strong and ambitious town, but we cannot ignore the reality that too many young people are starting life at a disadvantage.

“The Sun Fund is about businesses coming together to take responsibility – not just financially, but with time, expertise, and long-term commitment – to create real opportunities for the next generation.

“This launch is not a celebration. It’s a starting point.”

The initiative is inspired by the Business Guardians model developed by Oxfordshire Youth and focuses on mentoring, work experience, skills development, and investing in youth services and facilities.

Early supporters include Cleenol Group and Westminster Group PLC, with more businesses expected to join ahead of the launch.

The Sun Fund aims to break cycles of disadvantage by investing in young people’s confidence, wellbeing, and real-world experience.

A central feature is the Banbury Youth Champions Committee, which will involve young people with lived experience to help shape the fund’s priorities.