This is a place where you can find out about opportunities that are available to your organisation. From funding streams to events and training, The Essex Alliance will keep you informed.
Following the 2024-25 Healthier Habits Hubs that took place across the County, Essex County Council (ECC) have changed the structure based on feedback from both residents and providers.
From 3rd November 2025, this is your opportunity to get creative.
Do you have an idea for a project? Does your hub have the creativity to run a successful health related project?
If your hub has what it takes, now is your chance. Applications open from 3rd November 2025 for hubs to apply for up to £2,500 (£5,000 if partnering with another) to run a project that aligns to one or more of the outcomes in our Essex County Council Wellbeing, Public Health and Communities Business Plan 2025-2028 (Wellbeing, public health and communities business plan):
Healthy Weight
Smokefree 2030
Children and Young People
Housing and Health
Physical Activity
Inclusive Growth, work and health
NHS 10 Year plan
Healthy Communities
Vulnerable groups
ECC recognise the importance of communities being able to organise events of health importance as well as events that promote community cohesion and integration. Therefore, funding has been made available for communities in Essex to lead and organise events. These can be Health promotion, events that raise awareness of issues that affect the community and or events that bring communities together for collective reflection.
The Healthier Habits Fund will offer financial support to organisations to help deliver new events/projects in the County of Essex.
The fund can be used to book a space or pay for other associated event costs. For each event, a maximum of £2,500 will be made available, or for collaboration between organisations, grants of up to £5,000 will be made available.
ECC are keen to develop an interesting and successful year-round events calendar and would like to encourage new community leaders and groups to come forward. As part of this ambition, we are keen to see new events that will complement existing offers.
Applicants must agree that if my application is successful the money received will be used ONLY towards the project set out in this application and that I will supply evidence as required to the HHH project team in the form of photos and/or feedback from users of the project to demonstrate our impact and appropriate use of ECC funds.
Who can apply?
Registered charities and CICs with sound governance and accountability structures
Individuals affiliated to a registered group that supports Essex can apply where no other registered charity of CIC can be found
Profit companies, constituted groups or religious organisations
How to apply.
Applications for the Healthier Habits Hubs fund 2025/26 will open on Monday 3rd November 2025 and close on Sunday 30th November 2025.
*Please be aware we reserve the right to close the application form early on the basis the funds have been allocated to projects on a first come first served basis ahead of the closing date*
Your application will be reviewed by the Healthier Habits Hubs projects team within 1 week (7 working days) of receiving your application and a response will be sent to you within 14 days of receiving your application.
Essex Community Foundation (ECF) is seeking passionate and committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide our mission to support communities across Essex.
As some of our valued trustees step down after completing their terms, we are looking to strengthen and diversify our Board so that it truly reflects the communities and voluntary sector we serve. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of local philanthropy and making a lasting difference across Essex.
We’re Looking For:
We welcome applications from anyone with a passion for supporting communities, and we are particularly interested in hearing from people with experience or expertise in:
Charity and the Voluntary Sector
Finance and Investment
Grantmaking
Marketing and Communications
Philanthropy
If you know someone who would be a great fit, please encourage them to apply and share this opportunity within your networks.
Alongside our trustee recruitment, we are also seeking a Co-opted Member for our Finance and Investment Committee. This focused role offers an excellent opportunity for someone with investment expertise to make a meaningful contribution to our work.
We’re excited to launch the Your Essex Community Learning Series, brought to you by Active Essex in partnership with Essex communities and organisations. Through this series of free webinars and online seminars, we aim to support, equip and inspire community groups, voluntary organisations, local leaders and grassroots networks across Essex.
As part of the Your Essex Community place-based offer, these sessions are designed based on insights gathered directly from local communities. They focus on the issues, skills, and challenges that matter most — whether that’s funding, community engagement, impact evaluation, leadership, or inclusive communication.
Each session is hosted online, making it accessible across the county. You can join live, ask questions, engage with facilitators and peers — all with zero travel required.
Upcoming Sessions & What You’ll Learn
Here’s a rundown of the forthcoming Learning Series webinars (all free to attend):
Date / Time
Title
What You’ll Gain
23 October, 2-3pm
Securing Grant Funding Successfully
Tips, strategies, and real examples of how to write compelling proposals — from both small and large grant perspectives.
11 November, 10-11am
Utilising Marketing to Promote Your Offer
Practical marketing methods, language, campaign ideas, social media approaches — delivered by the Active Essex Marketing team.
11 November, 11am-12pm
Engaging Local Communities Effectively
Approaches to community leadership, resident-led initiatives, building belonging, and creating system change through local engagement.
3 December, 10.30-11.30am
Effective Leadership for VCS During Change
Navigating uncertainty in times of reform, funding shifts, and organisational pressures — resilience, courage and adaptive leadership.
21 January 2026, 12-1pm
Inclusive Language and Communication
Gain tools to foster equity, accessibility, and amplify community voice; explore the Social Model of Disability and inclusive communication.
5 February 2026, 4-5pm
How to Demonstrate Your Impact
Learn the fundamentals of impact measurement: planning, data collection, analysis, reporting — and making your case with confidence.
Whether you’re fairly new to running a community project or a seasoned lead, these sessions are built to add value — practical tools, peer learning, and insight to help your organisation grow stronger.
Why It Matters
In Essex, we see a wealth of voluntary organisations, resident groups, and community networks doing vital work. Yet many face shared challenges: limited funding, competing priorities, evolving local structures, and navigating change. The Learning Series is part of our commitment to help meet those challenges head on — not by prescribing solutions, but by building skills, sharing best practice, and growing collective capacity.
As we roll out more sessions, the Learning Series will evolve — shaped by your feedback and the emerging needs across the county.
Join Us
Sign up now to access the webinars and be part of a growing community of practice across Essex. You’ll be able to attend live and revisit recordings (where available).
Help shape the future of Crossroads Braintree & Chelmsford
We’re looking for compassionate, community-minded individuals to join our Board of Trustees. Whether you have lived experience, professional skills, or simply a passion for supporting unpaid family carers and older adults — your voice matters.
What you’ll gain:
✅ Use your skills for good
✅ Make a real difference in Mid Essex
✅ Be part of a warm, inclusive team
✅ No prior trustee experience needed — just commitment and care
Interested or want to learn more?
📩 Contact: Danni Perry
Finance and Business Development Manager
📧 braintreexroads@btconnect.com
📞 01376 529985
📍 Crossroads Braintree & Chelmsford, 8 Park Farm, Witham Road, Black Notley, Braintree CM77 8LQ
Are you looking to upskill, connect with others, and make a real difference in your community?
Every Child Online is seeking friendly Volunteer Ambassadors to help run our pop-up stalls across Essex.
As a Volunteer Ambassador, you’ll:
Promote online safety and digital inclusion
Raise awareness of our cause and support fundraising
Help children and young people access the tech they need to succeed in school and life
This is a flexible and rewarding opportunity where you can gain digital, client, and event skills, meet new people, and enjoy the satisfaction of helping others.
Looking to save money, eat well, and meet new people? Join us for Batch Cooking on a Budget – a fun and relaxed series of cooking sessions designed to help you make delicious meals without breaking the bank.
This six-session programme is perfect for everyone – no experience needed! Each session is packed with friendly vibes, hands-on learning, and plenty of practical tips.
Here’s what you can expect: ✅ All ingredients and equipment provided – just bring yourself! ✅ Free Hygiene Level 1 course & certificate – a great addition to your CV. ✅ Take home your own slow cooker and utensils at the end of the course!
When: Every other week, starting 10th September, 12:15 PM – 2:00 PM Where: The Hive URC, North Street, Southminster, CM0 7DF
Salary: Up to £55,000 gross per annum FTE – depending on experience
Location: Hybrid – including offices in the local authority areas of Basildon, Braintree, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford and Thurrock
Fixed Term Contract: Permanent
Due to the retirement of our existing Chief Executive officer we are looking for an inspirational and self-motivated leader to continue to develop Citizens Advice Braintree & South Essex (CABSE). CABSE is a well-regarded local independent charity providing free, impartial and confidential information, advice and guidance to 20,000 people per annum.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a successful Local Citizens Advice in Essex serving a population of over 750,000 people spread across the local authority areas of Basildon, Braintree, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford and Thurrock.
The successful candidate may be an experienced Citizens Advice professional, a Senior Manager with experience in the other parts of the voluntary sector or someone with an outstanding track record who is looking for a career change.
CABSE is an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our clients and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check, satisfactory references and must meet the HMRC requirements to be considered a ‘Fit & Proper person’.
Closing date for applications: 5pm on Thursday 25th of September 2025
Stage 1 Interview dates: 13th and 14th of October 2025
📢 Mind in West Essex are looking for corporate sponsors in Harlow, Uttlesford and Epping Forest for our Mental Elf 2025 fun run / walk on December 7th 2025.
You’ll be helping to sleigh mental health stigma and raise vital funds for our work in West Essex.
🏅 Event, route, goodie bag and medal sponsorship packages are available. If you’d like to partner with us for this day of festive family fun for a great cause, get in touch today!
Salary: Up to £55,000 gross per annum FTE – depending on experience
Location: Hybrid – including offices in the local authority areas of Basildon, Braintree, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford and Thurrock
Fixed Term Contract: Permanent
Due to the retirement of our existing Chief Executive officer we are looking for an inspirational and self-motivated leader to continue to develop Citizens Advice Braintree & South Essex (CABSE). CABSE is a well-regarded local independent charity providing free, impartial and confidential information, advice and guidance to 20,000 people per annum.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a successful Local Citizens Advice in Essex serving a population of over 750,000 people spread across the local authority areas of Basildon, Braintree, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford and Thurrock.
The successful candidate may be an experienced Citizens Advice professional, a Senior Manager with experience in the other parts of the voluntary sector or someone with an outstanding track record who is looking for a career change.
CABSE is an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our clients and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check, satisfactory references and must meet the HMRC requirements to be considered a ‘Fit & Proper person’.
Closing date for applications: 5pm on Thursday 25th of September 2025
Stage 1 Interview dates: 13th and 14th of October 2025
Rainbow Services, a community-focused charity based in Harlow, is inviting applications for two exciting roles:
1. Pedal Power Project Co-ordinator
Role Overview: Coordinate the Pedal Power programme, which offers free bikes to Harlow residents to promote active lifestyles and community well‑being.
Application Process: Submit a CV and a brief covering letter (max one side of A4) outlining your interest and relevant experience to Kelly at Kelly@rainbowservices.org.uk.
Deadline: Applications close at 5 pm on 26 August 2025.
2. Marketing and Communications Officer
Role Overview: Support the Harlow Place Partnership by delivering creative and effective marketing and communications for flagship local projects and investments.
Application Process: Submit a CV and a one‑page cover letter to Kelly (Kelly@rainbowservices.org.uk), detailing your interest and suitability for the role.
Deadline: Also closes at 5 pm on 26 August 2025.
Rainbow Services is committed to being an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from across the community.
