News

This is where we’ll post third sector news and important updates that are useful for your organisation.

Greggs Foundation Community Grants Now Open for Tilbury Organisations

The Greggs Foundation is delighted to announce the opening of its latest round of Community Grants, specifically targeting not-for-profit organisations operating within Tilbury, Essex. This initiative underscores the Foundation’s commitment to supporting local communities by addressing pressing needs and fostering positive change.

Funding Details:

  • Grant Amount: Up to £20,000 per year

  • Duration: Two years

  • Number of Grants Available: Up to three organisations will be funded in this round

Eligibility Criteria:

To be considered for a Greggs Foundation Community Grant, applicant organisations must:

  • Be a not-for-profit entity

  • Operate within Tilbury, Essex

  • Align with the Foundation’s Theory of Change, which focuses on:

    • Addressing direct needs in the local community

    • Providing food and support for individuals

    • Reducing social isolation and expanding social networks

    • Building knowledge, confidence, and opportunities

Application Process:

Applications are now being accepted and will remain open until 12 noon on 9th May. Organisations interested in applying can access the application form and further details through the following link:

Greggs Foundation Community Grants Programme Application Form

For additional information or to discuss the application process further, please contact the Greggs Foundation directly.

This funding opportunity represents a significant investment in the Tilbury community, aiming to empower local organisations that are dedicated to making a meaningful difference. Eligible organisations are encouraged to apply and contribute to the ongoing development and support of the local community.

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Funding, News, Opportunities

Greater Essex devolution consultation

The UK government has launched the Greater Essex devolution consultation. The consultation seeks views on a proposal to form a Mayoral Combined County Authority for the local government areas in Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock.

The consultation invites those who live and work across Greater Essex to share their views on:

  • the proposed geography
  • the effect of establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority in Greater Essex
  • how the Mayoral Combined County Authority will make decisions

Have your say on the UK government’s devolution consultation

The consultation opened on Monday 17 February and will run until Sunday 13 April 2025.

What is devolution?

Devolution is the transfer of powers and funding from UK government to local authority level.  It is important because decisions are made closer to the local people, communities and businesses they affect.

Devolution would provide greater freedoms and flexibilities for councils to work more effectively to improve public services and outcomes for residents and businesses.

Watch our short video about Greater Essex Devolution.

What does devolution look like?

A devolution deal would create a new single body, known as a Strategic Authority, for Essex. It would initially take the form of a combined county authority.

These arrangements would be agreed prior to the first Mayoral election, which would take place in May 2026.

The key functions of the strategic authority would include strategic transport functions, such as support for buses, trains and concessionary fares, skills and driving economic growth.

What would devolution mean for us?

In Greater Essex, devolution could mean:

  • improved co-ordination of transport across the whole county to make it easier for people to commute and travel
  • better skills and training for adults, tailored to the jobs available locally because money is spent locally rather than by the UK government
  • better job opportunities
  • improved health and wellbeing
  • maximising the local natural environment and tackling climate change
  • a stronger voice for Essex with UK government – at the moment, the UK government finds it difficult to know how to talk to Essex as a place
  • more strategic control over planning and housing

You can read more about devolution in other areas

What is Greater Essex?

Greater Essex refers to the combined area represented by Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council, and Thurrock Council.

What is the Devolution Priority Programme?

The Devolution Priority Programme is for areas aiming to move towards devolution quickly. It is aimed at areas wishing to establish a Mayoral Combined County Authority.

The Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution has outlined that participants must have local agreement to progress around a sensible geographical area.

What is a Strategic Authority?

A Strategic Authority is a legal body set up using national legislation, with its own board and governance arrangements.

This would enable a group of two or more councils to collaborate and make collective decisions across council boundaries.

Depending on the form of devolution in an area, there are three levels of Strategic Authority available:

  • Foundation Strategic Authority: Available to those areas without an elected Mayor. It will have limited devolution. For example, the current Lancashire devolution deal will establish a Foundation Strategic Authority.
  • Mayoral Combined County Authority:  For those with an elected Mayor, a range of powers will be devolved. For example, the West of England is a Mayoral Combined County Authority.
  • Established Mayoral Strategic Authority: For those Mayoral Strategic Authorities, who are able to satisfy a number of additional governance requirements. They will have access to the most devolution. Greater Manchester and the West Midlands are already at this stage.

The UK government is looking to create a Mayoral Combined County Authority for Greater Essex by May 2026.

What is a Mayoral Combined Authority?

A Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA) is a local government body that enables two or more county councils and unitary councils to work together and make decisions on issues which affect the whole county. The MCCA would have a directly elected Mayor, who chairs the combined authority.

What would the Mayor do?

The UK government’s intention is for devolution to be accompanied by a directly elected Mayor. If this happens in Essex, we expect the Mayor would ultimately take on the current role of Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex.

What powers would the elected Mayor have?

The Mayor would be directly elected by the people of Essex. The elected Mayor would have the ability to speak directly to government ministers and secure funding for local projects. They would also be able to make strategic decisions, help attract investment and improve infrastructure.

What is the role of a directly elected Mayor in a Mayoral Combined County Authority compared to a local council Mayor?

The main difference lies in their scope of responsibilities and the level of governance they would oversee.

A directly elected Mayor in a Mayoral Combined County Authority has a broader role that typically covers multiple local councils within a Combined or Strategic Authority. The directly elected Mayor would have significant powers over strategic functions such as:

  • economic development
  • housing
  • infrastructure
  • transport

For example, in Essex the elected Mayor would also serve as the Police, Fire, and Crime Commissioner. The Mayor would make strategic decisions, help attract investment and improve infrastructure.

On the other hand, a Mayor for a local council is responsible for the governance of a single local authority. The mayor’s powers are more focused on the day-to-day administration and local services within that specific council area. They work closely with the council to implement policies and manage local services such as:

  • community services
  • local planning
  • waste collection

The key difference is that a Mayor in a Mayoral Combined County Authority has a wider, more strategic role that spans multiple councils. Local council Mayors focus on the governance and services within a single local authority.

What is the role of Mayors compared to council leaders?

The UK government believes that within Strategic Authorities, Mayors should have a unique role to focus on devolved responsibilities. Council leaders are expected to lead their areas and deliver essential services.

What is a Combined Authority?

A combined authority is a legal body set up using national legislation that enables a group of two or more councils to collaborate and take collective decisions across council boundaries. It is expected that Combined Authorities will be replaced by Strategic Authorities.

Read more about Combined Authorities in the LGA’s publication.

When can we expect this to take place?

Now we have received confirmation that we are on the Priority Programme, the UK government is looking to create a Mayoral Combined County Authority for Greater Essex by May 2026. Mayoral elections would take place in that month.

Does devolution mean the county council elections in May 2025 will be postponed?

The UK government’s consultation will run from Monday 17 February until Sunday 13 April 2025. The postponement would be for an initial period of a year, but if proposals to reorganise local authorities are agreed, it is likely that there would be no further elections to ECC until its abolition, other than by-elections.

Do residents have a say in this?

The UK government’s consultation will run from Monday 17 February until Sunday 13 April 2025. This will be supported by local activity in Essex to reinforce messages with local audiences including residents and businesses.

Where can I find out more?

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Consultations, Events, News, Opportunities

Applications closing soon for the Small Charity Week match funding campaign

Applications closing soon for the Small Charity Week match funding campaign 

Don’t miss your chance to apply for the new Small Charity Week match funding campaign. If your income is between £5,000 and £1 million, then you’ll have the chance to win up to £10,000 of match funding! Applications close 2 April.

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Funding, News, Opportunities

Volunteer Opportunity: Safeguarding Lead for Essex Neighbourhood Watch

The Essex County Neighbourhood Watch Association is looking for a dedicated volunteer to take on the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead as we update our Safeguarding Policies in line with the Neighbourhood Watch Network.

Who We Are:

  • President: Geoff Ireland
  • Chairman: Clive Stewart
  • Deputy Chairmen: Clive Woodward & Roger Passfield
  • Treasurer & Secretary: Clive Stewart
  • Executives: Colin Freeman & Steve Leverett
  • Registered Charity Number: 1168988

Why We Need You:
Working alongside Essex Police, we have identified the need for a Safeguarding Lead to ensure best practices across our network. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to your community while developing valuable skills.

Who Can Apply?

  • Do you already have experience in safeguarding and want to share your expertise?
  • Are you looking to develop new skills? Full training and support will be provided in collaboration with Essex Police.

What Does the Role Involve?
The responsibilities of a Safeguarding Lead will vary depending on the organisation’s needs, but you can find a general overview HERE.

Interested? Here’s How to Apply:
Email essexcountynwassoc@btinternet.com by 9th April with a few details about why you’re interested and any relevant experience.

Following applications, Neil Dibell, Citizens in Policing Manager, Essex Police, will be in touch to discuss the role, training, and next steps.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Clive Stewart
Chairman, Essex County Neighbourhood Watch Association

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: News, Opportunities

The Rotary Baddow Races – Volunteer Course marshals needed (18th May 2025)

For the last 40 years home to the Baddow Races has been the Millenium Centre at Great Baddow.

Sunday 18th May with a start time of 10am for the 10 Mile race, and shortly afterwards for the 2 mile fun run.

We are licensed by UK Athletics under licence 2024-46952 and registered with BARR the British Association of Road Runners. Our course has been measured and certified by UK Association of Course Measurers under course number 18/190.

This event takes a huge amount of effort to organise and we are always looking for willing hands to help us deliver a first-class day not only for runners but for the community of Chelmsford.

We raise thousands of pounds for our local charities and aim to provide a fun day out for all the family as well as the runners.

🚨 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! 🚨

The Baddow Races take place on Sunday, 18 May 2025 and we need course marshals to help make this incredible charity event happen!

📍 Great Baddow Recreation Ground
8:30 AM briefing – finish by 12:00 noon
🦺 Hi-vis & bottled water provided
🚐 Transport to marshal points available

This long-running event supports The Children’s Society (East), Farleigh Hospice, and other local charities. But we can’t do it without YOU!

Volunteering is easy, fun, and a great way to give back. Grab some friends, support your community, and be part of the action!

💌 Interested? Email marshals.baddowraces@gmail.com or call Stephen King on 07850 344015 📞

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Opportunities

𝗟𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘅?

Whether you’re completing your Duke of Edinburgh Award, gaining work experience, or simply want to give back to your community, there’s a perfect role waiting for you!
💚 Explore local volunteering opportunities on The Essex Map and find ways to make a difference near you.

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: News, Opportunities

Want to change young lives? Become a children and young people’s counsellor with Renew

Take the first step towards a rewarding career in counselling with Renew’s DiplomaHE in Counselling (Child and Young Person), delivered in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University.

This course offers specialised clinical training to prepare you for impactful work with children and young people.

 Course Details:

  • Part-time course: Study and train part-time at a pace that suits your lifestyle.
  • Student finance: You may be eligible for a loan to cover the costs of your tuition.

 Upcoming FREE online Q&A Session: 26 March at 1pm

For more information, please fill out the contact form here.

You can also reach out to Michelle Allen at michelleallen@renew.org.uk or call 01245 264348.

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Opportunities, Training

Job Vacancy – Hearing Help Essex are recruiting for a new CEO

Join Hearing Help Essex as Our New Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

FULL DETAILS HERE

Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for making a difference? Hearing Help Essex is seeking a visionary Chief Executive Officer to drive our mission forward and expand our reach to support even more individuals living with hearing loss across the county.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a dynamic and adaptable leader, ideally with experience in the charity sector and a strong connection to the challenges faced by those with hearing loss.
With demand for our vital services growing, you’ll be at the forefront of a dynamic and rewarding environment, balancing strategic vision with hands-on engagement.

In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Shape and implement innovative strategies to meet the evolving needs of our community.
  • Build meaningful relationships with stakeholders, partners, and supporters to amplify our impact.
  • Lead and inspire a dedicated team, ensuring the delivery of exceptional support for those we serve.

This position is more than a job – it’s a chance to lead transformative change and improve the lives of thousands of people. As CEO, you’ll work closely with a committed Board of Trustees, ensuring the charity’s continued success within our robust governance framework.

Are you ready to lead a charity with heart, vision, and purpose?

Apply today to become part of a team dedicated to changing lives across Essex.

For more details, including the job description, please click here or email sophie.ede@hearinghelpessex.org.uk 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: News, Opportunities, Third Sector Jobs

☕ 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀!☕

Chelmsford Star Co-op host bi-weekly coffee mornings for their members at the Braintree & Chelmsford Quadrant Stores, bringing people together for a warm drink, great company, and inspiring talks.

They are on the lookout for guest speakers to share their knowledge, experiences, or passions with our friendly community. Whether you have an interesting story to tell, expert advice to share, or an engaging topic to present, they’d love to hear from you!

The Chelmsford Group takes place every other Monday and the Braintree Group takes place every other Thursday (10.15am for a 10.30am start. Lasts up to 1 hour.)

If you’re interested in speaking at one of the sessions, please get in touch.

The Chelmsford Group
The Braintree Group

Email: membership@chelmsfordstar.coop

Find out more here: https://www.chelmsfordstar.coop/community/events/

 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Opportunities

The Mental Health Toolkit: The Essentials

Looking for mental health training that helps you both at work and at home? The Mental Health Toolkit: The Essentials is for you.

Brought to you by Mind in West Essex, This half-day workshop introduces you to the Mental Health Continuum and the Emotional Needs & Resources approach.

It helps you to better support yourself and those around you – in your personal and professional life.

Places cost just £75 per person. Find out more, see upcoming dates and book your place here: MentalHealthTraining.org.uk/mht-essentials/

 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News, Training