Essex Freemasons set the standard for Community Engagement
Driven by purpose, powered by people, with Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Elliott Chevin at the forefront
Essex Freemasons are rapidly establishing themselves as national leaders in delivering the United Grand Lodge of England’s Third Pillar strategy, ‘Forging a Thriving Future’, focusing on Community Engagement at the very centre of what it means to be a modern Freemason.
Through bold, visible initiatives and a deep commitment to hands-on service, the Province is not only strengthening its presence across Essex but actively shaping the future of Freemasonry as a dynamic, compassionate and trusted force within society.
From the heartfelt in-person distribution of VE Day 80 flags and bunting to care homes, schools and community groups, to the outstanding success of the Essex-wide ‘Litter Pick as part of the Spring Clean campaign’, Essex Freemasons continue to demonstrate that true engagement means more than charitable donations, it’s about being present, building relationships and creating a legacy of trust. The Litter Pick, which saw Freemasons and their families take to the streets and green spaces in a visible show of civic pride, proved a remarkable success. Building on that momentum, members are now being encouraged to take part in regular community clean-up efforts in partnership with organisations such as CleanupUK.
The launch of the Orsett Masonic Community Fund marks another major step forward in this mission. Designed to complement the hugely successful Cross Keys Community Fund, which has now raised over £35,000 and supported close to 100 schools, care homes, and grassroots initiatives, the new Orsett Fund extends this impact across Thurrock and South Essex. This layered, strategic approach is rapidly becoming a hallmark of Essex Freemasonry’s engagement model: local, lasting, and led by action.
At the heart of this growing community presence is Orsett Masonic Hall, which has evolved into a vibrant and recognised hub for public good. Through consistent engagement and promotion, the Hall has become widely known for its public events, charitable activity, and openness, proving that Freemasonry can be both rooted in tradition and relevant to modern community life.
That momentum will culminate in what is expected to be a landmark event in Masonic history. On 22 July 2025, Essex Freemasons will unite publicly with the Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons for a Domestic Abuse Awareness evening at Orsett Hall. Held in partnership with the charity ‘Changing Pathways’ and supported by the Mayor of Thurrock, this historic tri-Order collaboration is believed to be a UK first, a powerful demonstration of solidarity, compassion, and the strength of collective action.
Further deepening this strategy is the forthcoming launch of ‘Hands on for Essex’, a new province-wide volunteering programme set to roll out over the summer. Designed to empower members to engage directly with local causes, the initiative will provide structured opportunities to support schools, charities, events and care services, while also promoting wellbeing and connection across the Province.
Crucially, the success of Essex’s community engagement efforts to date has been made possible through impactful collaboration with the Provincial Charity and Communications Teams, whose expertise and support have ensured that projects are not only well-resourced but effectively delivered and widely promoted. This teamwork has amplified our reach and strengthened the strategic delivery of the Third Pillar across the Province.
Every one of Essex’s Community Engagement initiatives has been picked up and published by UGLE, a clear signal that the Province is not just aligned with the national Third Pillar strategy, but helping to lead and define it.
Assistant Provincial Grand Master (APGM), Elliott Chevin captured the spirit of the movement, stating:
“Community engagement isn’t an optional extra, it’s the very essence of who we are and why we exist. What we’re achieving in Essex is nothing short of transformative, and it’s inspiring to see Freemasonry making such a visible, positive difference in so many lives.”
As Essex Freemasons continue to build these layers, each reinforcing the last, they are not only demonstrating the value of community service, but delivering a strategic, visible and replicable model of success for the whole Craft.
This is more than just embracing the Third Pillar.
In Essex, we are setting the standard.
To read more about CleanupUK and Changing Pathways, click the links below to their websites:
CleanupUK https://www.cleanupuk.org.uk/
Changing Pathways https://changingpathways.org/
Photos:
Top: Elliott Chevin APGM (centre left holding jacket) with Freemasons and their families helping with the ‘Litter Pick’
Left: Part of the distribution of VE Day 80 flags and bunting to care homes, schools and community groups
Right: L-R Dave Barton, Provincial Community Lead – Elliott Chevin, APGM
Bottom: Clearing that litter!
