Body Politic Dance – a pioneering female-led charity that uses hip hop dance and arts to empower individuals and communities.
Founded in 2012, Body Politic’s vision is to transform the lives and experiences of young people aged 5 to 25, through meaningful and innovative collaborations, cross-sector partnership working, boundary-pushing productions and outreach work, locally, regionally and nationally. Based in Oxford, they aim to inspire positive social change, challenge inequality, and provide a creative platform for those often marginalised in society.
Supporting young people to become future leaders and changemakers
Body Politic believes in the power of young people and that their voices and ideas should be at the centre of our society. They are passionate about creative accessible routes into employment and training for young people. Youth unemployment is rising, with nearly one million young people not in work, education or training (Centre for Social Justice, November 2025).Â
Without targeted, local intervention, many of the young people we work with risk being further excluded from pathways into employment and leadership.
Their new volunteer programme supports young people to step up from being participants to becoming leaders in their communities.
Training Ground: Volunteer Programme 2026
Training Ground is an innovative 12-month volunteer programme for twenty 14–25 year olds in Oxford, rooted in Hip Hop dance, creativity and community building.
Launched in April, Training Ground is designed to build confidence, wellbeing and creative skills, while supporting young people to grow as leaders, artists and changemakers.
As a Training Ground participant, you:
✨ Develop leadership and teamwork skills
🎯 Co-create exciting community projects with real impact
🤝 Volunteer with Body Politic’s partner organisations across Oxford
🔥 Take part in intensive workshops delivered by our Future Leaders
đź‘ź Level up your Hip Hop dance skills and artistic practice
📄 Receive 1–2–1 employment support, including CV guidance
🛡️ Train in safeguarding, project design & delivery, and trauma-informed practice
🌍 Join a vibrant creative community and make lasting friendships
This programme equips you with the tools, experience and confidence to take your next steps; whether that’s further education, employment, or creative pathways.
This project is kindly supported by Oxfordshire County Council, Public Health, The Foyle Foundation and Arts Council England.
“I never thought I was good enough. Now I’m teaching, creating and helping others find their voice.”
Future Leader, Body Politic
How to get involved
If this sounds like something you are interested in, or know a young person that would love this opportunity, visit the Body Politic website or email Nat Wong, Volunteer Co-ordinator.Â
You need to apply by Friday 22nd May 2026.