News

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

Baby Loss in the Workplace: Time for Change

Baby Loss in the Workplace: Time for Change 💼

1 in 4 pregnancies ends in loss, yet only 10% of UK employees say their workplace has a baby loss or miscarriage policy. Even more concerning: over 20% report receiving no support at all from their employer.

As of 2024:

🔹 Only 36% of organisations have a pregnancy loss policy

🔹 Just 24% of leaders say employees feel comfortable speaking about it

🔹 38,000 employees have been trained in bereavement support by Sands — a great start, but we need more

🔹 In sectors like private equity, only 7% have a written policy in place

🔹 NHS England has advised trusts to offer 10 days’ paid miscarriage leave — a step in the right direction

This isn’t just about policy — it’s about compassion, culture, and leadership. Employers must do better in supporting colleagues through unimaginable loss.

👉 If your organisation hasn’t yet implemented baby loss training or support policies, now is the time.

Our next workplace training session takes place on 10th October in Witham and is only ÂŁ60 per person!

To book email support@littlewingsofhope.co.uk

Let’s make the workplace a kinder place. One where grief is met with support, not silence.

 

Organised by Little Wings of Hope – Baby Loss Charity 

 

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

How Compassionate Community Meetups are making a difference in Colchester…

We hope you can join us for our next Meetup on Friday 4h July, hosted by Compassionate Community Champions  Thompson Smith & Puxon, at their Stable Road premises, Colchester.

How Compassionate Community Meetups are making a difference in Colchester…

  • These monthly Compassionate Community Meetups are an opportunity to be part of a special group of people, places and projects who are helping build networks of support for others experiencing life’s biggest challenges.
  • Starting at 10am with a cuppa, Thompson Smith & Puxon and Essex Search & Rescue will be sharing why & how they are supporting local communities.
  • There will be an opportunity for further networking, sharing, and learning with other community ambassadors to 11am.
  • Our wellbeing walk will start at 11am for those who wish to join.

Organised by St Helena Hospice

 

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

Job Vacancies with Maldon & District CVS…

Maldon and District Community Voluntary Service exists to support thriving and strong communities in the Maldon District. The charity was set up in response to a community need for voluntary sector infrastructure support. Our services are designed to support and develop the local voluntary and community sector to thrive for the benefit of local people and the towns and villages they live in.

We also have a focus on embedding good practice within the local sector and inclusion is at the heart of everything we deliver. Maldon and District CVS want to see a strong and connected community where people are supported by a thriving and professional voluntary sector.

We offer a range of services to the local sector including funding and governance advice and information cascade. We also host the districts Volunteer Centre to support more people to get involved in community action in the district and run a range of projects, services and activities to help people to feel well and connected to their communities.

Maldon & District CVS are a service provider which values diversity and inclusivity towards our service users, partners and members regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, race, disability or creed.

Current Job Vacancies…

Community Gaming Initiative Coordinator

The Community Gaming Initiative (CGI) Project Coordinator will be responsible for the delivery and development of the CGI project.  The role will coordinate sessional workers and gaming sessions and develop partnerships to expand the initiative’s reach across different demographics. The postholder will also be responsible for monitoring, reporting, and ensuring safeguarding and inclusivity are embedded in all activities.

Read the full job description here: CGI Coordinator

Closing date: 5pm Friday 18th July

Apply Now

Database & Projects Administrator

The primary responsibility of this role is to support MDCVS projects and manage the organisational databases including Maldon District Connects and Volunteer Essex. The post holder will ensure accuracy and accessibility of information and prepare quarterly reports on website usage and take up to inform decision making and demonstrate impact.

The post holder will also assist MDCVS projects as requested by the Operations Manager, providing administrative, monitoring, or project delivery support as needed.

Read the full job description here: Database and projects admin

Closing date: 5pm Friday 18th July

Apply Now

 

Staff vacancies

Maldon and District CVS wants to meet the aims and commitments set out in its equality policy. This includes not discriminating under the Equality Act 2010, and building an accurate picture of the make-up of the workforce in encouraging equality and diversity.

The organisation needs your help and co-operation to enable it to do this and have an equality and diversity monitoring form which we ask candidates to complete. Filling in this form is voluntary. The information provided will be kept confidential and will be used for monitoring purposes.

Equality-and-diversity-monitoring-form

Maldon & District CVS are a service provider which values diversity and inclusivity towards our service users, partners and members regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, race, disability or creed.

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: News, Opportunities

Today (27th June) is National PTSD Awareness Day

PTSD affects people from all walks of life — veterans, survivors, emergency responders, and everyday people who’ve faced trauma.

On this important day, let’s raise awareness, show support, and make sure help is easy to find.

💻 At www.essexmap.co.uk, you can discover local mental health services, support groups, and community initiatives that offer a safe space for those affected by PTSD and other mental health challenges.

✨ Are you part of a group or service that supports people with PTSD in Essex?

List it on the Essex Map to reach more people who need you.

Together, we can help break the stigma and build a stronger, more supportive community. 💚

#PTSDawareness #MentalHealthMatters #EssexMap #CommunitySupport #YouAreNotAlone #PTSD

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News

Join Chelmsford Star Co-op to help clean up Central Park in Chelmsford…

Chelmsford Star Co-op is calling on volunteers to participate in the Big Co-op Clean Up at Central Park, Chelmsford. This community-driven event aims to bring together residents, families, and local groups to help keep our cherished green spaces clean and vibrant.

  • Date & Time: Friday 27th June 2025: 2pm – 3.30pm

  • Location: Central Park, Chelmsford 

  • Meeting Point: Meet at the gazebo at Bell Meadow CM2 0PD

Please wear sturdy footwear.

Volunteers will be provided with all necessary equipment, including litter pickers, gloves, high-visibility vests, and bin bags. Please bring your own if you can.

Why volunteer?

  • Make a Visible Impact: Your efforts will contribute to a cleaner, more inviting park for everyone to enjoy.

  • Community Engagement: Meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference in Chelmsford.

Call 0800 254 0404 or email: Membership@chelmsfordstar.coop

Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or trying it for the first time, your contribution is valuable and appreciated. 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: Events, News

Take a Break with Dementia Adventure: Supported Holidays Across the UK

At Dementia Adventure, we believe that life doesn’t stop with a diagnosis. That’s why we offer 5-day supported breaks across the UK—giving people living with dementia and their caregivers the chance to relax, reconnect, and recharge.

What’s Included?

Our breaks are fully supported by a dedicated team of trained staff and volunteers. Here’s what you can expect:

  • All-Inclusive Care – All meals are freshly prepared for you.

  • Planned Day Trips – Explore beautiful locations and create lasting memories.

  • Time to Relax – Rest and recharge in a safe, welcoming environment.

The Benefits

Guests often experience:

  • Improved appetite

  • Better sleep

  • A brighter mood

Time away from routine in the right setting can make a big difference—for both the person living with dementia and their companion.

Need Help with Funding?

We understand that finances can be a concern. Talk to us—we’re here to help. Funding doesn’t have to be a barrier to getting the break you need.


Learn more or book your break today:

📞 Call us: 01245 237548
📧 Email: adventures@dementiaadventure.org
🌐 Visit: dementiaadventure.org

Dementia Adventure is a registered charity (CIO) in England & Wales: 1163163.
Dementia Adventure is a registered trademark.

Download our poster here

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

Free counselling available for young people in Chelmsford, Basildon and Brentwood

Is a young person you work with struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating or body image concerns?

Renew Counselling and Training is now offering free specialist support for young people in Chelmsford, Basildon and Brentwood.

To find out more or make a referral, just mention “YP Re-Ed” when you get in touch.

📍 Learn more at: https://renew.org.uk/free-counselling-available-for-young-people-struggling-with-eating-disorders-or-body-image/

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

Volunteer at our Community Allotment in Saffron Walden…

Mind in West Essex are looking for people to volunteer, both as individuals and in small groups, at our Community Allotment in the Saffron Walden area!

Our vision is for local people to be involved in aspects of running the allotment – from planning, building beds and planting, to watering and ongoing maintenance.

Getting outdoors, moving more and learning new skills all have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, which is why we’re so passionate about this project.

We’ve cleared the space, replaced the fence so that it’s a safe place to go and built a shed. Now, we need your help to get the allotment up and running – we have beds to build, prepare and sow; a shed to waterproof; a planting schedule to create; ongoing maintenance to do and more.

If you are interested or want to find out more, please contact Lisa on 07511 178438 or email community@mindinwestessex.org.uk today!

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

Join Colchester Gateway Clubs as an Accounts & Admin Assistant

Colchester Gateway Clubs, a registered charity supporting people with learning disabilities, is hiring an Accounts & Admin Assistant to help ensure smooth operations behind the scenes.

Location: Colchester
Hours: 16 per week
Salary: ÂŁ12,480 per annum (ÂŁ15/hour)

Role Overview:
This position supports the charity’s financial and administrative functions. Duties include bookkeeping, handling invoices, managing petty cash, assisting with budgets, and maintaining charity records. The role also supports compliance with GDPR, health & safety, and other operational policies.

Who We’re Looking For:
Candidates should have experience in bookkeeping, strong IT and communication skills, and the ability to manage deadlines independently or in a team. Familiarity with accounting software like Sage or Xero and knowledge of the charity sector are a plus.

Why Join Us?
Be part of a positive, flexible, and professional team committed to making a difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities.

Read the full Job Description here: https://www.essexalliance.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Colchester-Gateway-Clubs.-JD-re-accounts-and-admin-asst-1.pdf

Closing date:      30th June 2025

Interview date:   TBA

Initial application process: CV and covering letter by email to: mlemon@colchestergateway.org.uk

 

Author: Emily Smith
Posted:
Categories: News, Opportunities

Supporting Carers Webinars

As part of Carers Week, Essex County Council are working with carers organisations to host webinars to highlight the importance of carer identification and early support offers available to carers. Your team may play a vital role in this. These webinars are aimed at all front-line practitioners and services working across Essex.

Support for young carers: Monday 9th June 10:00 – 10:30am
Young carers often balance their school and social lives with their caring duties and that can have a huge impact. The Essex Young Carers Service work with partner organisations to provide support to young carers in Essex to navigate school, work and life. This webinar by the Youth Service will cover the support available to young carers and where you as a professional can signpost/refer young carers.
Support for adult carers: Tuesday 10th June 10:00 – 10:30am
The physical and mental health of carers can be significantly impacted by the demands of their caring role, with many experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness, often leading to burnout and a decline in their overall well-being. This webinar by Action for Family Carers, Carers First, Essex Wellbeing Service and Adult Social Care Connects will give an overview of some of the organisations supporting carers across Essex so that you can be more confident in identifying carers and then signposting/referring to specialist support available.

Supporting carers of people with dementia: Wednesday 11th June 10:00-10:30am
Supporting dementia carers is crucial because they often experience significant stress, isolation, and emotional strain. When carers are well-supported, they can provide better care, feel better in themselves, and are more likely to continue caring. This webinar by Alzheimer’s Society will raise awareness of some of the challenges carers supporting people with dementia experience, along with examples of some of the key places you can refer/signpost carers too for support.

Advocacy support for carers: Thursday 12th June 11:30am – 12:00pm
Carers may not know what help to ask for, how to ask, or indeed who to ask. Services are available to support carers to understand their options, make informed choices and decisions about their caring role and be heard when they face a challenge or issue. This webinar by Voiceability will raise awareness of some of the challenges carers experience with themselves and/or those they care for not having their views heard, and provide information on how to access for carers you support who might need this service.

Employers support for carers: Friday 13th June 1 – 2pm
Supporting carers to continue providing care and to participate in everyday life through employment is in everyone’s best interest. Employers have a responsibility to develop an inclusive workplace where carers are enabled to work, recognised, respected and supported, which helps to retain valued members of staff. This webinar by Employers for Carers will cover things employers should consider to support carers in the workforce, including tools and resource templates available.

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