𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘆 – 𝟭𝟬 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 – let’s stand together to raise awareness, break the stigma, and remind everyone that help is always available.
If you or someone you know is struggling, find local support services on The Essex Map
If your group or organisation provides support around suicide prevention or mental health, please add your details to the Essex Map — or email communications@essexalliance.org.uk so more people can find the help they need.
Parents 1st’s Thurrock peer supporters invite any pregnant or new mums to join us at our regular walk and talk events.
These relaxed, gentle walks are a chance for you to meet other mums or mums-to-be from the area, and chat through any worries or concerns you may have about your pregnancy or life as a new mum. We meet at a different location in Thurrock each time, and finish each session with a hot drink at a local cafe.
Please join us in October at:
Monday 6th October – Coalhouse Fort Park, Princess Margaret Rd, East Tilbury, Tilbury RM18 8PB. Meet in the car park at 10.00am.
Friday 17th October – Belhus Park, Aveley, RM15 4PX. Meet outside Impulse Leisure at 10.00am.
Monday 20th October – Maple Park Community Centre, St. Andrews Way, Stanford-le-Hope SS17 0FL. Meet outside at 10.00am.
Each September is World Alzheimer’s Month, with World Alzheimer’s Day on 21st September—a global moment to connect, learn, and support those living with dementia.
In Essex, we’re proud to spotlight the Essex Map, a community hub where people can find dementia-friendly groups, support networks, and services across the region.
Are you part of a dementia-focused charity or community group in Essex?
Help local families find you by registering your services on the Essex Map—for free!
A brand-new community event is coming to Waltham Abbey this autumn – and it’s one for the whole family (dogs included!).
On Saturday 20 September, from 11am to 5pm, Elmtree Canine Retreat will open its three-acre site on Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey, for the first-ever Mad Hatter’s Dog Day – a joyful festival celebrating dogs, families, and community spirit.
What to Expect
This fun-filled day promises something for everyone, including:
Dog Show – showcase your four-legged friend and compete for prizes.
Hat Parade – bring your most creative headwear!
Demonstrations & Children’s Activities – from kids’ crafts to bouncy castles.
Stalls & Food – shop, browse, and enjoy tasty treats.
Pre-Loved Fashion & More – unique finds in support of a great cause.
And the best part? All funds raised will support Underdog International, a charity with the mission of “children helping dogs, and dogs helping children.”
The event is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and media-friendly – with spokespeople available for interviews and plenty of opportunities to get involved.
So grab your hat, bring the family, and join us for an unforgettable day out in support of an incredible cause.
Renew Counselling offers fully funded and low-cost counselling to make mental health support accessible for children and young people in our community:
Fully funded counselling for children and young people in Basildon and Brentwood
Low-cost counselling for children and young people in Chelmsford
Fully funded specialist counselling for young people struggling with eating disorders or body image (thanks to The Prudence Trust and the Stone Family Foundation)
To find out more or make a referral, please contact Renew via info@renew.org.uk or call 01245 359 353.
Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News
Emergency Alerts is a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a danger to life nearby. In an emergency, such as severe flooding, fires or extreme weather, your mobile phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe.
On Sunday 7 September at 3pm, UK Government will be testing emergency alert system (EAS) for the second-ever nationwide test. The test causes a mobile phone or tablet to:
make a loud siren-like sound that lasts about 10 seconds, even if it’s set on silent,
It may also cause a device to vibrate or read out the alert.
A message will appear on your screens making it clear the alert is only a test.
If you are affected by domestic abuse and have a concealed mobile phone from your abuser, you may not wish the sound of the alert to draw attention to your phone. How you opt out depends on your device. Full instructions telling you how to opt out are available at [https://www.gov.uk/alerts/opting-out]
Support for you
If domestic abuse is happening to you, it’s important to tell someone and remember you’re not alone.
If you do not feel safe or believe there is an immediate threat, call 999.
Men can call Respect Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010 327 (Monday to Friday 10am to 8pm), or visit the webchat at Men’s Advice Line (Wednesday 10am to 11:30am and 2pm to 4pm) for non-judgemental information and support.
LGBT+: if you identify as LGBT+ you can call Galop on 0800 999 5428 for emotional and practical support
Forced marriage and honour crimes: anyone can call Karma Nirvana on 0800 5999 247 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm) for forced marriage and honour crimes. You can also call 020 7008 0151 to speak to the GOV.UK Forced Marriage Unit
Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News
When: Second Monday of every month, 12:30pm – 2:30pm Where: CVST, Imperial House, 22 Rosemary Road, Clacton, CO15 1NZ Cost: £3 per person for refreshments Contact: 01255 425692
The Sight Friendship Group is a welcoming social gathering for blind and visually impaired individuals, as well as their relatives and carers.
Meeting once a month, the group offers a relaxed and friendly space to enjoy a cuppa, share stories, and make connections — and yes, sometimes there’s even cake!
This monthly meet-up is a wonderful opportunity to:
Build friendships and share experiences
Connect with others who understand the challenges of sight loss
Enjoy a warm and supportive community atmosphere
The group is supported by Kinder Essex, Grassroots, Essex Sight, and CVST – Bringing Unity to Our Community.
Everyone is welcome — so if you or someone you know would enjoy an afternoon of good company, conversation, and refreshments, come along!
Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News
Date: Friday, 29th August Time: 11:00 AM Meeting Point: Outside Chelmsford Library
Join us for a fun and engaging community walk through the heart of Chelmsford as part of the Buzz in the City initiative. This 10km walk will take you on a journey to discover the beautiful Farleigh Hospice Bee Sculptures scattered across the city.
Whether you’re a keen walker, a lover of the outdoors, or simply looking for a way to connect with others in the community, this is a wonderful opportunity to explore, chat, and enjoy Chelmsford’s vibrant atmosphere.
What You Need to Know
Distance: 10km
Theme: Finding the Farleigh Hospice Bee Sculptures
Weather: Please dress appropriately for the day’s conditions
Refreshments: Bring your own snacks and drinks
This event is brought to you with the support of Kinder Essex. Let’s get moving, connect with nature, and celebrate the buzz in our city!
Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News
Kinder Essex, in partnership with Danbury Parish Council, is delighted to bring Hug in a Shrug to Danbury Leisure Centre – a warm and welcoming space for craft, conversation, and community kindness.
Join Kelly in the Dawson Cafe Bar for a relaxing session of creativity and connection. Whether you knit, crochet, sew, or enjoy any other craft, you’re welcome to bring your own project or join in with community kindness activities that support local people.
Event Details:
Where: Danbury Leisure Centre, Dawson Field, Main Road, Danbury, CM3 4NQ (Free parking available)
When:
First Wednesday of every month: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Third Monday of every month: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
There’s no need to book – simply come along with your craft materials. Refreshments are available for purchase from the lounge bar café.
Why join Hug in a Shrug?
Meet friendly, like-minded people from the local area
Share your skills or learn new ones
Take part in kindness projects making a real difference in the community
Looking for a fun, friendly, and active way to start your Friday mornings? Join the Walk, Talk, and Coffee group in Hockley and Hawkwell!
Every Friday at 9:30 AM, members meet at 1st Hawkwell Scout Hall, White Hart Lane, SS5 4DF for a refreshing walk in and around the scenic Hockley area. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, keep active, and meet new people.
The walks are relaxed and social, with plenty of chances to chat along the way. Afterward, you can unwind over a comforting cup of tea or coffee – the perfect way to end the week and begin the weekend.
Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, connect with your community, or simply enjoy nature, this welcoming group is open to everyone.
Details:
When: Every Friday, 9:30 AM
Where: 1st Hawkwell Scout Hall, White Hart Lane, SS5 4DF
Contact: Corrina O’Donnell, Kinder Essex Rochford Coach
