The Rochford Community Fund has provided support to a wide range of local projects, including a community defibrillator, glass bead making workshops, and a support group for adopted children. The grants have enabled local organisations to deliver activities and improvements across the district that promote wellbeing, inclusion, and stronger communities.
Launched in April 2025 with a total of £30,000 contributed by Rochford District Council, Find Your Active Rochford, and the Castle Point and Rochford Health and Wellbeing Board, the fund offered grants of up to £2,000 to projects that benefit local people. Following assessment by the Communities, Wellbeing and Housing Committee, £28,791.50 was awarded to 17 organisations supporting initiatives such as yoga classes, youth music workshops, forest school equipment, social inclusion programmes, community events, and building maintenance projects.
The Rochford Community Fund was created to back local projects that promote physical activity, wellbeing, and community cohesion, aligning with the priorities of the Council, Find Your Active Rochford, and the Castle Point and Rochford Health and Wellbeing Board. Councillor Mike Webb, Chair of the Communities Wellbeing and Housing Committee, emphasized that the fund exemplifies partnership working and helps local organisations improve health, wellbeing, and quality of life across the district.
Local organisations have welcomed the support. Jamie Sawtell, CEO of Bar n Bus, highlighted that the grant has contributed to their outreach project at Rayleigh Skatepark, providing a safe space for young people each week. Matt King, CEO of TrustLinks, noted that funding has enabled essential maintenance of their building, a valued community resource hosting activities for young people, vulnerable adults, and the wider community to support mental health and wellbeing.
