The Essex Activity Awards are celebrating a major milestone in 2026, marking 20 years of recognising the volunteers, coaches, clubs, schools and community champions whose dedication helps people across Greater Essex lead healthier, happier and more active lives. This anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and the lasting impact they are having on local communities.
To mark this special occasion, Active Essex is delighted to welcome HolidayActivities as the headline sponsor of the 2026 awards.
Through its partnership with Essex ActivAte, HolidayActivities plays a vital role through its technology platform, enabling families to discover and book activities while supporting providers and local authorities to manage and report on delivery. By streamlining access and administration, the platform connects more children and young people with high-quality holiday experiences, helping opportunities reach those who can benefit most.
Chris Brown, Head of Operations at HolidayActivities, spoke to us and said:
“For 20 years, these awards have shone a light on the people who keep Greater Essex moving: the coaches who turn up in the rain, the volunteers who give up their weekends, and the clubs that make sure no child is left on the sidelines.
We see that commitment every school holiday. Through Essex ActivAte, our work with Active Essex helps thousands of children eligible for free school meals take part in Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme sessions, and none of that happens without the brilliant work of the local organisations delivering the activities.
That’s why we wanted to be headline sponsor in this anniversary year. It’s our chance to say thank you to all the people behind the scenes, and to celebrate what they provide to children, families and communities right across the county.”
The Essex Activity Awards would not be possible without the support of sponsors and partners, whose backing helps shine a spotlight on the individuals, organisations and collaborations driving positive change in local communities.
Nicky Smith, Relationship Development Officer and HAF Lead, also reflected:
“We’re really pleased to have HolidayActivities as headline sponsor of the Essex Activity Awards, especially as we celebrate the awards’ 20th anniversary. We’ve worked closely together through Essex ActivAte for a number of years, building a strong partnership around a shared goal of creating more opportunities for children and families across Greater Essex. It feels like a natural fit to mark this milestone with a partner that shares our passion for supporting communities and recognising the fantastic people and organisations making a difference every day.”
As we celebrate 20 years of recognising excellence, HolidayActivities’ sponsorship highlights the power of partnership and a shared commitment to creating positive opportunities for children, families and communities across Greater Essex.
Learn more about the awards here.
