Chatten Free School in Witham is transforming lives by providing vital work experience for autistic students with complex needs. Local businesses are urged to help create meaningful community roles.
A new enterprise hub in Essex, Hope Park, is creating vital career pathways for young adults with learning difficulties, challenging the shocking 95% unemployment rate. Discover how this project is changing lives.
Pupils at Larchwood Primary in Brentwood are shaping their school's future as junior governors, digital leaders, and eco champions. Discover how these roles build citizenship.
Generous shoebox appeal by Seymour House Nurseries brings comfort to struggling families. Home-Start Essex reports a 134% surge in demand for its vital support services this winter.
As 2025 ends, MP Marie Goldman reflects on the irreplaceable human spirit in Chelmsford's charities, from litter-picking to supporting veterans, proving community action beats any algorithm.
Beloved BBC Radio Essex presenter Dave Monk has died aged 72, one year after a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Tributes pour in for the broadcaster of 40 years. Read his final, inspiring message.
Plan your post-Christmas shopping. Aldi, M&S, Home Bargains and more confirm Boxing Day closures. Check the full list of affected retailers and their festive hours.
Essex Police announce a zero-tolerance Christmas campaign against drink and drug driving, with targeted patrols and stern warnings about losing your licence, job, and life.
A new Community Litter Hub opens in Wickford, Essex, supporting volunteers tackling litter. In its launch clean-up, over 300kg of waste, including hazardous materials, was removed from just 500 metres of roadside.
Jake Bedson, the new manager of Brentwood Theatre, discusses his vision to modernise the venue and turn it into a creative hub for the whole of Essex. Listen to the full interview.
Students at Mayflower High School in Billericay have been recognised for completing the demanding Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award, placing them in an elite national group. Read about their community impact and the MP's celebratory visit.
Witham MP Priti Patel visited Vaycay Luxury Travel to donate toys for Home-Start Essex's Christmas campaign, supporting local families in need. Find out how you can contribute.
A former Premier League and England footballer was arrested at Stansted Airport on suspicion of attempted rape. He has been released on bail until February 2026.
A mother speaks out after her daughter's manipulative abuser, Charles Benson-Clark, is jailed for 6.5 years. Read her powerful message and learn how to get support.
The Girls Inspired programme in Essex is helping vulnerable young women escape unhealthy relationships and criminality through sport and mentoring. Discover how this initiative creates positive change.
Discover how Nazila Husanovic-Gladwyn uses her lived experience to support families and improve mental health services at Essex NHS Trust. Learn about this vital role making a real difference.
Local author Sylvia Kent returns to Phoenix FM's Book Club, sharing Essex writing groups and November book recommendations. Hear her interviews at phoenixfm.com.
Discover the inspiring winners of the 2025 Billericay Community Awards. These local heroes and businesses were honoured for making the town a better place to live and work.
MP Marie Goldman advocates for a legal ban on smartphones in schools after hearing from teachers and parents about the damaging impact on children's mental health and learning.
Discover our review of the Jingle Ville Christmas experience at Lower Drayton Farm in Penkridge. Find ticket prices, activities, and why it's a great festive family day out.
YOVOY launches a delivery booking hotline to help UK retailers manage peak season shipping from 26th Nov to 10th Dec 2025. No account needed. Call 0121 293 0205.
Discover why Fibonacci Day on 23 November celebrates the mathematical sequence found in sunflowers, art, and music. Explore the Golden Ratio's impact from Da Vinci to modern culture.
Garry 'Jellybean' Johnson, founding member of Prince's band The Time, has died aged 69. Discover his legacy in the Minneapolis Sound movement.
Labour Minister Steve Reed questions a council's four-day week trial, citing performance declines. Over 100 business leaders defend the shorter week, sparking a major national debate.
Cash-strapped Birmingham City Council is selling the former Birchfield Community Day Nursery in Handsworth at auction on December 10. Guide price is over £300,000 for the 17,513 sq ft site.
A former community nursery in Handsworth, left with toys and collapsed roofs, is set for auction. Birmingham City Council hopes to raise funds from the December 10 sale.
TOWIE stars Joey and Frankie Essex pay tribute to their uncle Greg Essex following his sad passing. Read their heartfelt Instagram messages.
Stockport NHS Foundation Trust celebrates over 150 years of volunteer service and 2,720 years of staff dedication in special awards ceremonies. Read more about the local heroes.
Strictly Air Ambulance 2026 is set for March 14 at the Brentwood Centre. The Essex & Herts Air Ambulance charity event features celebrity judges and dancers, aiming to surpass last year's £58,000 raised. Book tickets now!
Aldi announces Christmas 2025 opening times with all 1,000 UK stores closed for 62 hours. Plan your festive shopping now to avoid disappointment.