Southend & South Essex CICs

Empowers the Basildon community through training, workshops, and leadership opportunities aimed at fostering local action and addressing inequality. They support individuals and groups, particularly those in need of emergency shelter services, by building capacity, promoting civic engagement, and advocating for community-led solutions. ACE Impact focuses on connecting local residents, community leaders, and organizations to collaborate on initiatives that strengthen community ties and address social issues. Their approach emphasizes shared skills and lived experiences, encouraging collective action for meaningful change.

Provides hands-on training and skills development for young people in South Essex, specifically targeting the live events industry. They facilitate enrichment opportunities through practical experiences, allowing participants to organize and produce events like the WYRD ESSEX showcase. The initiative aims to establish the Thames Estuary region as a national hub for creative talent, fostering collaboration and innovation in the arts. Their approach includes community engagement and partnerships to enhance local cultural infrastructure.

Offers tailored exercise classes specifically designed for individuals affected by cancer, including patients undergoing treatment and survivors. These classes aim to improve physical health and well-being, fostering a supportive environment for recovery. Participants must be over 18 and have a cancer diagnosis, with referrals available from healthcare professionals or through self-referral. The program emphasizes the importance of safe exercise and aims to boost confidence and enjoyment in fitness activities.

Offers cold water immersion sessions aimed at enhancing mental well-being and fostering community cohesion. These sessions are designed for individuals experiencing mild to moderate depression and anxiety, providing a safe and supportive environment for therapeutic activities. Participants are encouraged to engage in open water swimming to naturally manage their mental health challenges. Operating primarily in Leigh-On-Sea, the organization emphasizes the mental health benefits of cold water therapy and aims to empower individuals to improve their overall well-being.

Provides tailored support and activities for individuals with disabilities and their families in Leigh-On-Sea. Their programs focus on enhancing social engagement, promoting independence, and fostering inclusive community connections to empower their beneficiaries. Connectability CIC emphasizes person-centred care, ensuring that each individual's unique needs and aspirations are met. They offer a variety of services including community participation and living support, aimed at improving the quality of life for disabled individuals.

Offers tailored training and support programs aimed at empowering women who are looking to rebuild, re-enter, or reshape their careers. The organization provides a variety of professional development opportunities, including courses ranging from one day to three years, with a focus on employability and self-employment. They operate multiple salon locations across Essex and Kent, connecting graduates with over 100 salon and beauty employers for real-world experience. Their unique approach includes career advice, CV support, and interview preparation to ensure long-term success for their participants.

Specializes in providing outstanding shared accommodation and holistic support services for young adults aged 18 and above, focusing on vulnerable groups such as unaccompanied asylum seekers and those transitioning from foster care. Their tailored guidance addresses educational needs, life skills, and community engagement to empower residents towards independent living.

Offers a social club and event venue for the local community, providing affordable facilities for weddings, birthdays, and various gatherings. They feature a members bar and a function hall available for hire, catering to residents of all ages in Stanford-le-Hope. The association aims to foster social connections and inclusivity, hosting regular events and activities that engage the community. With a focus on affordability, they ensure that everyone can enjoy their amenities and participate in community life.

Organizes the Essex International Film Festival, celebrating independent filmmaking and showcasing local talent in the film industry. The festival features screenings, workshops, and community events aimed at engaging the public and supporting aspiring filmmakers. By partnering with local cinemas and cultural venues, they provide accessible film-related activities that foster creativity and innovation. This initiative not only highlights the work of local filmmakers but also strengthens community ties through shared cultural experiences.

Promotes Tamil culture and heritage through a variety of social, cultural, charitable, and educational activities. The organization serves the Tamil community in Essex, providing a supportive environment for Tamils of all backgrounds to connect, engage, and strengthen ties with other local communities. They offer programs that foster relationships between the Tamil community and other local communities, enhancing cultural understanding and collaboration. Activities include cultural events, educational workshops, and community engagement initiatives.

Organizes community-focused events that celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of the South Essex estuary, including artistic performances and large-scale contemporary arts festivals. The festival engages local residents and visitors, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the unique environment of the Thames Estuary region. Through initiatives like mudwalks and the Estuary Anthology, they provide diverse artistic experiences and opportunities for local artists. The upcoming Estuary 2025 festival will explore the theme of 'Vessels', highlighting the interconnectedness of people, communities, and the environment.

Offers arts and gardening workshops that promote creativity and enhance community wellbeing. Engages individuals of all ages in hands-on activities that foster connections with nature and each other.

Provides a life-saving preventative measure for UK veterans and serving personnel, including reservists, who may go missing. The service allows individuals to pre-share vital details such as health conditions and safe places, which can be accessed by police to expedite searches and ensure appropriate support. Born from lived experience, the Forcer Protocol aims to enhance the well-being of those in acute mental distress by connecting them with veteran-specific services. Operating nationwide, the initiative focuses on improving the quality of life for its beneficiaries through community engagement and compassionate intervention.

Provides specialized suicide intervention and prevention services to individuals experiencing emotional pain and suicidal thoughts. The organization offers personalized psycho-educational therapy, assessments, safety planning, and ongoing monitoring to empower clients to explore alternative coping strategies. They operate in Southend-On-Sea and focus on creating a supportive environment that serves as an informal alternative to mainstream therapy services. Their unique approach emphasizes one-to-one support tailored to the needs of each individual.

Provides interactive projection systems designed to enhance learning and rehabilitation for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and the elderly. Their immersive technology creates engaging environments that promote development, well-being, and positive social interactions. FunAbility Project operates across multiple countries, delivering impactful programs tailored to the needs of their beneficiaries, including interactive floor games and therapeutic activities. The organization emphasizes fun and engagement in their approach to learning and rehabilitation, utilizing digital technology for positive change.

Offers bike sales, servicing, repairs, and cycling lessons in Hadleigh, Essex, catering to riders of all ages and abilities. The community hub promotes cycling accessibility and enjoyment through various initiatives, including bike hire and local cycling events. They provide expert advice and support to families, beginners, and experienced riders, fostering an inclusive cycling environment. Their focus on community engagement makes them a vital resource for local residents looking to enhance their cycling experience.

Offers engaging school holiday clubs, breakfast, lunchtime, and after-school programs designed to promote physical activity and social interaction among children. They provide tailored birthday parties and sports development programs, including football and dodgeball, to enhance children's physical and social skills. Operating in the Leigh-On-Sea area, their initiatives focus on building friendships and improving concentration through active participation. Their professional staff also collaborates with schools to deliver engaging PE lessons, supporting teachers in planning and preparation.

Promotes Bengali culture through a variety of community events, workshops, and educational programs aimed at enriching the local Bengali community in Southend-On-Sea. They celebrate significant cultural events such as the Bengali New Year and focus on talent development in arts, including music, drama, and dance. The organization also plans to launch a magazine featuring creative works in both Bengali and English, fostering a deeper connection to Bengali heritage. By providing a cultural hub, they aim to nurture the next generation's appreciation for their cultural roots.

Offers inclusive, play-based music education for children from birth to age six, focusing on early years singing and alternative music programs. They empower parents, carers, and childminders to foster creativity and social skills in young children while also providing musical opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities. Operating in Shoeburyness, Essex, they emphasize neurodiversity-affirming approaches that nurture the whole child and address the gap in traditional music education. Their programs integrate singing, movement, and early communication techniques to support language and emotional development.

Offers free karate classes for children and young people aged 11-18 in Basildon, promoting physical activity, confidence, and discipline. The organization has been active since 2009, providing an inclusive environment that encourages participation in martial arts. Classes are currently free until March 2027, supported by funding from the National Lottery Community Fund and the UK Government. Maru Karate Kai is also affiliated with national martial arts organizations, ensuring a quality training experience for its members.

Delivers interactive theatre workshops and performances specifically designed for educational establishments, enhancing the learning experience for children and young people. Their services aim to foster creativity, confidence, and informed decision-making through engaging performances that provoke thought and dialogue. Operating primarily in Southend-on-Sea, Essex County Council, and Thurrock Council, they cater to schools and the wider community. The company employs professional actors to create impactful experiences that resonate emotionally with audiences, ensuring a lasting effect beyond the performance.

Provides supported living accommodations and tailored support services for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism. The organization focuses on empowering individuals to achieve greater independence and enhance their quality of life through personalized housing options and care. Operating primarily in Southend and South Essex, they offer a range of services designed to meet the unique needs of vulnerable adults, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive in their communities.

Open Arms Network CIC provides community mental health support by fostering confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging among individuals facing mental health challenges. They primarily assist local residents in Benfleet and the surrounding areas, promoting well-being and resilience through various support initiatives.

Offers specialized training in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), kickboxing, and strength and conditioning for individuals of all ages, including children, adults, and cadets. The facility promotes physical fitness, self-defense skills, and personal development, providing a structured environment for training and wellness. Located in Billericay, Essex, Paragon Training Facility focuses on tailored training programs that enhance athletic performance and overall well-being. Their dedicated team of coaches supports members in achieving their fitness goals through a variety of classes and membership options.

Offers a community noticeboard to promote local events and facilitate communication among residents and organizations while enhancing community well-being through educational programs and support services.

Engages the community in honoring the bravery and sacrifices of World War II heroes through various initiatives. The organization publishes veterans' stories and experiences, raising awareness about the challenges faced by those who have served in the armed forces. They also encourage the preservation of historical memorabilia and collaborate with families and museums to protect valuable testimonies for future generations. Based in Southend-on-Sea, they aim to educate future generations about the importance of remembrance and community involvement.

Offers a range of music services including production and artist management, focusing on supporting emerging talent in the local music scene. They empower artists to develop their skills and reach wider audiences, particularly in the rap genre.

Commits to helping retired racing greyhounds find loving forever homes, offering rehabilitation and support for both the dogs and their future adoptive families. With over 10 years of experience, the organization has successfully rehomed more than 2000 greyhounds, ensuring they transition smoothly into family life. Operating in the Romford area, they promote responsible pet ownership and breed awareness, while also collaborating with local trainers to facilitate the rehoming process. Their dedicated team of volunteers plays a crucial role in providing care and support to these retired athletes.

Provides support and accommodation for individuals facing various life challenges, including the elderly and disabled. The foundation focuses on enhancing the quality of life for its beneficiaries by offering companionship, mobility assistance, and day-to-day support. They also empower students as volunteers, creating opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful community service. Operating primarily in Basildon, the foundation emphasizes building bonds and breaking isolation through its various programs.

Provides real-world self-protection training that empowers individuals, particularly those at risk, with essential physical, psychological, and emotional tools to survive violence. All proceeds support local community causes, including domestic abuse charities.

Offers a range of lactation and babywearing support services to families in South Essex, including Basildon, Brentwood, and surrounding areas. Their services include free sling library sessions, private workshops, and 1:1 consultations for parents seeking guidance on safe carrying and feeding practices. They also provide sling and baby carrier hire options, making it accessible for families to find the right carrying solution. The CIC is run by a trained and insured infant carrying consultant, ensuring professional support for new parents.

Provides award-winning community radio services to the diverse communities of Essex, focusing on local news, culture, and events. The station engages listeners through live broadcasts, interviews, and discussions, ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard. They host various programmes and special events, such as the Battle of The Bands and community expos, to foster local talent and business engagement. By promoting local artists and discussing community issues, they aim to empower and connect residents across Essex.

Supports local creative businesses, artists, and cultural professionals by organizing networking events and providing a creative directory. Advocates for fair pay and better working conditions within the arts sector.

Provides a platform for parents and carers of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) in Southend-on-Sea to share information and advocate for improved services. They work collaboratively with local authorities to enhance outcomes for SEND families, ensuring transparency and representation in decision-making processes. The forum encourages community involvement through feedback mechanisms and aims to steer realistic changes that benefit families in the region. Their independent status allows them to speak freely about the challenges and successes within the SEND community.

Offers educational services focused on teaching the Tamil language, culture, and arts to Tamil children and families in Southend-On-Sea. The school aims to preserve Tamil heritage and foster a sense of community through a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Provides immediate mental health support through the sale of clothing and merchandise, with every purchase funding professional counselling for individuals facing financial barriers or long waiting times for NHS care. The organization specifically helps those struggling with mental health issues in Southend-On-Sea, aiming to empower them and improve their well-being. Their unique approach combines retail with social impact, ensuring that profits directly contribute to mental health services in the community. They focus on making mental health support accessible to those who need it most.

Provides mental health support and counselling services for children, teenagers, families, and adults in Rayleigh and surrounding areas. Their offerings include one-to-one counselling, workshops for various age groups, support groups, and wellness initiatives, all designed to enhance mental well-being. The organization emphasizes early intervention and accessibility, particularly for those who may not afford private help. They aim to bridge the gap in mental health services and address the ongoing mental health crisis through community-focused programs.

Offers a variety of creative workshops, courses, and drop-in crafting activities in Leigh-on-Sea and Southend, promoting mental health and access to creativity. They support local artists and community projects through funded workshops and outreach initiatives.

Provides support and extracurricular activities for young people from ethnically diverse or deprived backgrounds in Basildon. Their programs focus on accessible learning, mentoring, and enrichment opportunities while advocating for racial justice and equality.

Offers high-quality sports experiences for children aged 8 to 16, focusing on Futsal and Football through holiday camps, weekly inclusive activities, and leadership pathways. They operate across Essex, Kent, London, Suffolk, and Norfolk, aiming to enhance physical health, teamwork, and personal development. Their programs are led by qualified teachers and UEFA coaches, incorporating innovative approaches like virtual reality sports to engage young participants. The organization is community-focused, ensuring local involvement in their initiatives.