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.
Local Conservatives promise to scrap parking charges and establish a trust to restore Birmingham's Sutton Park ahead of the 2026 elections. Read their full plan.
Plans for the UK's first Universal Studios theme park near Cambridgeshire have been approved, promising 8,000 permanent jobs and a £50bn economic boost. Discover the details.
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.
Discover Birmingham's stunning parks and green spaces that earned it the UK's first 'Nature City' title. Explore the top 10 spots, from Sutton Park to Moseley Bog.
A father of three was fined nearly £300 after being 13 minutes late to his car. He lost his keys in a play centre ball pit and couldn't extend his parking stay. He's now calling for a change in the rules.
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.
Discover Hope Rings' bestselling, personalised jewellery pieces, like the Hug from Heaven ring, offering comfort and connection as heartfelt Christmas gifts. Shop now for meaningful presents.
Staffordshire County Council leader Ian Cooper is under urgent investigation by Reform UK after allegations of racist and bigoted social media comments. Anti-racism group Hope Not Hate published the claims.
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.
LCH Charity launches its 'Give the Gift of Hope' appeal to support 2,000 disadvantaged children in Leicester this Christmas with gifts, warm clothes, and festive experiences.
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.
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust has surpassed its cancer treatment target for two consecutive months, showing a 15% year-on-year improvement. Read about the positive trajectory.
Leicestershire Police are investigating after a woman's body was discovered in Maris Play Park, Leicester. The death is not being treated as suspicious. Read the latest updates.
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.
Discover why a trip from Birmingham to the enchanting Hope Valley village of Castleton, with its twinkling lights and cosy pubs, was an almost perfect festive escape.
Discover Castleton, a fairytale Derbyshire village that transforms into a magical Christmas destination with caves, carols, and quaint shops. Plan your festive visit!
A man in his 70s has died after being hit by a black Audi A1 in a Farmfoods car park on Holyhead Road, Telford. Police are appealing for witnesses.
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.