Jo Cox Foundation: Embracing Jo’s “more in common” message 10 years on from MP's murder

The Jo Cox Foundation was set up in 2016 by Jo’s family and friends to ensure that people were making positive change on the issues the MP was most passionate about.

In the decade that has followed, the foundation has worked to continue her message that “we have more in common than that which divides us.”

On a local level, it has delivered several projects working with community members across Kirklees.

One of its current projects — Bridging and Belonging — is now in its second stage following a series of listening events in Batley, Dewsbury and Heckmondwike, which took place over 18 months to create a shared vision for the future of the area.

Previous work has included a research project looking at community members’ experiences of place, cohesion, togetherness, belonging, and loneliness in Batley and Heckmondwike, and another project in Batley and Spen that encouraged community members to explore what it means to belong locally, which culminated in the group delivering a Great Get Together event.

Loneliness is a key issue which the foundation works to tackle, and it was something Jo was passionate about.

Olivia Field, the foundation’s chief executive, said that loneliness “remains a real problem.”

Ms Field said that although there is “still a lot to do” on tackling loneliness, Jo can “absolutely take credit” for what has been achieved so far.

The foundation has established a Loneliness Policy Action Group, which aims to tackle loneliness in four ways: To use the latest research and data to find effective ways of tackling loneliness; to work in collaboration with policymakers, charities and community leaders; to highlight the scale and impact of loneliness; and to advocate for change by engaging with government and other decision-makers.

Another purpose of the foundation is to encourage conversations between people or groups who have differing opinions but who find a “shared humanity.”

Ms Field said: “Recognising what we have in common is not to ignore our differences.”

Another key area of the foundation’s work is striving for a safer and more respectful politics.

It views the abuse and intimidation of elected representatives as a threat to democracy and aims to address this problem through the Jo Cox Civility Commission.

As part of this commission, the foundation published a call to action in 2024 featuring 28 recommendations.

These included increasing the public’s knowledge of the roles of elected representatives, recommending that the abuse and intimidation of elected politicians be considered when implementing the Online Safety Act, and recommending that ongoing training should continue for all police about their responsibilities for dealing with threats against elected representatives.

Jo’s “more in common” legacy is continued every year through the Great Get Together, which sees community events take place all over the country, not only to remember Jo but to celebrate the meaning of community.

The events can take many shapes, from picnics to culture evenings, to family fun days, and this year will take place from June 19 to 21.

Also taking place as part of the Great Get Together is the Run for Jo at Oakwell Hall and Country Park on June 21, organised by More in Common Batley & Spen.

A report published by the foundation looked at the impact of last year’s Great Get Together and urged people to get involved this year: “This will be the most important Great Get Together yet — and we want you to be part of it.

“In June 2026, we’re asking communities across the country to come together and show that we have more in common than that which divides us.

“This report reminds us how even the simplest moments — sharing food, stories, or music with people from different backgrounds—can build understanding, openness, trust, and a stronger sense of belonging.

“When these moments happen everywhere, they help communities and the whole country feel stronger, happier, and more resilient.

“Get-togethers don’t need to be big or complicated—just welcoming. A small gathering can be just as meaningful as a festival, a street party, or a community celebration.

“On the weekend of what would have been Jo’s birthday, help us come together to celebrate what we have in common.”

More information about organising a Get Together can be found at: www.jocoxfoundation.org