Essex Freemasons unite community organisations in support of young people

Highly successful networking breakfast focused on supporting young people and strengthening community wellbeing across Essex

More than 50 representatives from charities, community groups, businesses and civic organisations gathered at Southend Masonic Centre, Saxon Hall in Southend for a highly successful networking breakfast focused on supporting young people and strengthening community wellbeing across Essex.

The event was hosted by Essex Freemasons and co-organised by the High Sheriff of Essex, Mrs Julie Fosh, Deputy Lieutenant (DL), Essex Freemasons Community Engagement Lead, David Barton and Active Essex and Essex Council for Voluntary Youth Services. The morning brought together organisations working across youth services, sport, education and community wellbeing, providing an opportunity to share ideas and develop new partnerships.

Among those in attendance were representatives from Southend United Community Trust, the Essex Cricket Board, a wide range of charities and community groups, and members of the Children’s Parliament as part of the Sir David Amess Children’s Parliament Mace Tour. Their presence highlighted the importance of ensuring young people have a voice in shaping the future of their communities.

The event also demonstrated the spirit of collaboration that exists within Freemasonry. Provincial Grand Charity Steward Chris Hicks was present, alongside representatives from the Order of Women Freemasons (OWF) and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (HFAF), reflecting a shared commitment across the Masonic family to supporting community engagement and youth wellbeing.

The idea for the gathering was first discussed following the presentation of the Essex High Sheriff’s Award earlier in the year, which was attended by Provincial Grand Master Paul Tarrant, Assistant Provincial Grand Master Elliott Chevin and David Barton. That conversation highlighted the opportunity for Freemasons to help bring together organisations from across Essex to build stronger community partnerships.

The networking breakfast created a warm and energetic atmosphere, with many organisations sharing stories of their work and identifying opportunities for collaboration that will benefit young people throughout the county.

High Sheriff of Essex, Julie Fosh DL, praised the gathering, saying:

“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 Essex Freemasons 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, Essex Freemasons Community Engagement Lead, added:

“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 how Freemasonry can play an important role in convening organisations, building partnerships and supporting initiatives that strengthen communities and improve opportunities for young people across Essex.

-ENDS-

Photos:

Top: L-R High Sheriff of Essex Julie Fosh DL, David Barton, Elaine Malone (OWF)

Below - Left: Chris Hicks with representatives of Garon Park - Right: L-R Barrister and former MP Anna Firth, with Ann Holland (HFAF) and Irene Stewart (HFAF)