Browsing: Community

Southend’s hidden brooks flow largely unseen beneath the city, but recent investigations along Prittle Brook reveal worrying levels of pollution, blockages and neglect. Campaigners are calling for urgent action to protect this forgotten blue space and restore its environmental health.

Residents, community groups and local businesses in Leigh, West Leigh, Belfairs and Eastwood Park can now apply for funding through the Big Sparks small grants scheme.

Local community groups are given a £1m boost from the Essex Violence and Vulnerability Partnership and the Community Grant Programme from the PFCC.

A look back over Southend East and Rochford’s achievements in 2025, celebrating community wins, restored funding, improved youth provision, and strengthened local action — with optimism for 2026.

Clements Hall Leisure Centre has installed a new Poolpod 3 lift to improve accessibility for pool users, with full Changing Places facilities scheduled for 2026, with costs at £45k plus £40. This investment enhances independence, dignity and comfort for residents with mobility challenges.

More than 30 young people came together for a youth-led event exploring consent, safety, and support around violence against women and girls, including a self-defence workshop and discussions led by Essex Police and local organisations.

Carers First are raising awareness of carers’ rights this Carers Rights Day, sharing resources to help carers understand the hospital discharge process and access the support they’re entitled to. Roberta’s story highlights the challenges carers face and the importance of knowing where to turn for help.

Goldies is bringing people together this December with a free Christmas Party in Braintree, offering music, refreshments, transport and community cheer for local Sing&Smile attendees.

Coast to Calm is a new wellbeing programme funded by the South East Essex Health Inequalities Fund, offering nature-based activities, creative health support and tailored interventions for families across Southend, Rochford and Castle Point from January to October 2026.

Poppies on the Pier has been extended until Sunday 23 November after attracting more than 17,000 visitors in its first week. The installation of 110,000 hand-knitted poppies continues to draw huge crowds, with the Royal British Legion stall remaining on the pier throughout the extended run.