The proportionate element of the Place Partnership work in Thurrock will focus on areas of greatest need, particularly in increasing levels of physical activity and building the capacity of voluntary and community organisations in the most inactive and deprived areas, including Tilbury, Chadwell St Mary and South Ockendon. The presence of 42 locally trusted organisations identified by Active Essex so far, provide a strong foundation for expanding Place Partnerships and promoting community wellbeing through inclusive activities.
System leaders in Thurrock are committed to removing systemic barriers and embracing asset-based community development, to build resilient communities with high social trust. This approach will lead to positive health behaviours, decreased health inequalities, and improved mental wellbeing. Addressing health, public transport, communication, and lifestyle barriers is essential, as well as utilising the area’s physical assets like parks and leisure facilities. With a system leads and a working group consisting of Thurrock CVS, Thurrock Council, Impulse Leisure and Active Essex, a strong governance structure has been established, which is helping to drive this work in Thurrock.
The development phase of Place Partnerships, which took place between June 24 and May 25, supported the appointment of a Physical Activity Navigator, leadership training, capacity building, networking, system mapping, and evaluation and insight, and in addition, piloting test and learn projects. There were exciting opportunities for residents, community groups and stakeholders to engage with and co-design the process, ensuring that the voices of residents remained at the heart of Place Partnerships.
