Your Essex 

Community 

Grant scheme open for community safety projects in Essex

We’ve launched a new grant scheme that aims to improve public safety in Essex and address violence and vulnerability. Local groups can apply to the Community Safety Initiatives Fund before Sunday 12 May 2024. These groups have the community links and knowledge to ensure the funding is used in the best way to benefit communities.

Ford RideLondon-Essex: road closures

Ford RideLondon-Essex takes place in London and Essex from Friday 24 May to Sunday 26 May. No road closures will span more than one day, however residents should expect travel disruptions in parts of Essex. All local hospitals remain accessible, and care providers will be able to make planned visits.

Areas affected include:

• Friday 24 May: Braintree, Colchester, Epping Forest, Saffron Walden, Tendring and Uttlesford
• Saturday 25 May: Chelmsford, Colchester and Maldon
• Sunday 26 May: Chelmsford, Epping Forest and Uttlesford

Volunteer and help bring the Duke of Edinburgh Award to life for young people

We're looking for enthusiastic and engaging volunteers to help make the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award happen for young people. As a volunteer, you will play a vital role in creating an energetic and supportive atmosphere helping bring the DofE Award to life for young people.  If you’re a dynamic and curious individual register to volunteer for DofE today. 

Children and families 

Memorable family days out this May

Climbing is an excellent activity for children, combining physical exercise with fun, boosting strength, coordination and confidence. With a choice of high ropes activities at our Essex County Parks sites, it’s also an easy and affordable day out.

Discover our Essex Outdoors Harlow High Adventure and Sky Ropes at Great Notley Country Park. There are also a range of Holiday Activity Days running at four centres during the half-term break.

Could you transform a vulnerable child’s life?

Foster carers can be the light a child needs to guide them out of the shadows. By giving a child a safe and nurturing home, you could set them on the path for a better future. You can find a fostering option to suit you, from one weekend a month to full-time support. Meet foster carers and find out more at a fostering information event this month.

Return to a rewarding career in early years and childcare

Every child deserves the best start in life, and you can help them achieve their potential with a career in early years and childcare. If you’re a qualified Level 2 or Level 3 early years practitioner, returning to the sector is easier than you think. Find your next early years role and return to a career you love.  

New bursary supports training in the early years sector

The Poppins bursary provides funded development opportunities and training for those looking to enter or currently working in the early years sector. The bursary aims to enhance the range and quality of services offered in communities. This will directly support training initiatives for early years settings across the county. More information about the Poppins Bursary is available online.

Health 

Step into spring with our walking challenge

The Safer, Greener, Healthier walking challenge has launched. This year’s challenge is called Step into Spring and will end on Sunday 12 May. Sign up and challenge yourself to walk 35,000 steps a week or 5,000 steps a day. One participant each week will be selected to win an annual Go Jauntly ( walking app) premium membership. Sign up for the Step into Spring walking challenge today.

Robot pets bringing joy to Essex residents

Our Adult Social Care team in mid Essex are demonstrating the therapeutic effect robotic pets can have. During a pilot the pets are being used to support people with learning difficulties and dementia. Families and staff have already noticed benefits and seen the positive impact the robot pets are having. Read about the benefits of the robot pets among residents. Make a positive difference to people’s lives and apply for a job in Adult Social Care.

Explore the meaning of healthy relationships with young people in Essex

A group of passionate young people in Essex have co-created an animation with the support of Essex Youth Service. The 'Relationships: Bee-ing healthy' video aims to support young people to develop healthy relationships. Created by and for young people, the video highlights five key messages. Watch the ‘Relationships: Bee-ing healthy' video now.

Environment 

Improve your garden with home composting

If you're getting out in the garden, then think composting! Composting your food and garden waste is a great way to add nutrients to the soil and improve soil structure. It can also attract wildlife such as insects, birds and hedgehogs. Get started with home composting, with a discounted compost bin and a free online course from Love Essex.

Keep track of your carbon footprint with the Carbon Cutting Essex app

The free Carbon Cutting Essex app is a fantastic way to keep track of your carbon footprint and discover small actions you can take to reduce it.  This month, we consider how we can all embrace our carbon footprint as part of our lifestyles. Take a step towards a greener future and download the Carbon Cutting Essex app today! 

Braxted Park hosts Let’s Talk Trash event for a second year

This July, year 6 primary school students and 11 to 13-year-olds at secondary schools across the county will have the opportunity to join the Let’s Talk Trash event at Braxted Park. The event aims to promote anti-littering behaviours and educate young people on actions to protect the environment. 

Economy 

Discover available support through our Apprenticeship Hub

Do you run a business? Have you considered hiring an apprentice? Now is the time to prepare to hire a school leaver for an apprenticeship. The Apprenticeship Hub can help you through the process and help promote your apprenticeship vacancy. Find out more about the support available through the Essex Opportunities team online.

Is your home phone ready to go digital?

A digital landline service will soon replace traditional phone lines and the switch is already happening in Essex. If you have broadband, the change should be straightforward – you’ll also get to keep your phone number. 

Individuals without broadband who depend on landlines may need to take extra steps. Make sure you contact your telephone provider to make them aware. More information on the digital landline switch is available online.

Is a career change on the cards for yourself or someone you know?

The Essex Careers magazine is a local guide on careers and training, and includes articles from local employers, local job market information and handy tips. Read the latest edition of the Essex careers magazine online.