More than 50 representatives from charities, community groups, businesses, civic organisations and youth initiatives gathered this morning at Saxon Hall in Southend for an inspiring networking event focused on improving wellbeing and opportunities for young people across Essex.
The event, hosted at Saxon Hall by Essex Freemasons, was organised by the High Sheriff of Essex, Mrs Julie Fosh DL, Essex Freemasons, Active Essex, and Essex Council for Voluntary Youth Services (ECVYS). Designed to bring together organisations committed to crime prevention, early intervention and positive mental health, the morning provided an opportunity for attendees to share ideas, build partnerships and strengthen collaborative networks.
Representatives from a wide range of organisations attended, including Southend United Community Trust, the Essex Cricket Board, youth charities, community groups, civic organisations and local businesses. A particularly special contribution came from representatives of the Children’s Parliament, who were present as part of the Sir David Amess Children’s Parliament Mace Tour, highlighting the importance of giving young people a voice in shaping their communities.
Over coffee and breakfast, participants shared stories of their work across Essex, from grassroots youth programmes to sport-led engagement initiatives and community wellbeing projects. The atmosphere was one of optimism and collaboration, with many organisations discovering shared goals and opportunities for future partnership.
Mrs Julie Fosh DL, High Sheriff of Essex, praised the spirit of collaboration shown by those in attendance:
“What a wonderful gathering of likeminded people from a wide range of Essex charities, CICs, businesses and other organisations all wanting to improve the wellbeing of others and provide enrichment opportunities for our young people. A huge thank you to David Barton from the Freemasons for generously providing the venue and breakfast, to Jim White from Active Essex, Rachel Brett from Essex Council for Voluntary Youth Services and to all those who gave their time to attend and share their stories with us. I hope the seeds sown bring forth fruitful connections.”
David Barton from Essex Freemasons also reflected on the success of the event:
“A huge thank you to everyone involved in making today such a success. There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout and it was clear that many new friendships and connections were made.”
The event demonstrated the power of collaboration between civic leaders, voluntary organisations, sporting bodies and community groups, all working toward a shared goal of supporting young people and strengthening communities across Essex.
With strong attendance and enthusiastic participation, the gathering served as a reminder that meaningful change often begins with simple conversations, and that when communities come together with a shared purpose, the impact can be far-reaching.
