Community renewal projects receive over £1m in Government Levelling Up funding

An anchor institution is one that, alongside its main function, plays a significant and recognised role in a locality by making a strategic contribution to the local economy.

Using the local status and visibility of Southend Hospital (part of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust) and its relationships with local partners, this pilot project will see investment in skills for businesses, including social businesses, communities and supporting people into employment.

The pilot’s primary focus will be moving people living in the most deprived wards in Southend who are unemployed or economically inactive, towards work at either Southend Hospital or Southend’s broader health and care sector.

Charlotte Williams, chief strategy and improvement officer at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It is fantastic to have been part of the partnership in Southend to secure this funding. We are committed at the Trust to our role in creating opportunities for local people, and I know that this funding will allow us all to support so many in our community through our Anchor programme.”

Cllr Ian Gilbert, Leader of the Council (Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Regeneration) added: “We are delighted to have helped secure just over a £1million package of investment from the Government which will transform careers guidance, training and job opportunities as well as improving skills and productivity in the local economy especially of those in our more deprived areas.

“This funding is very welcome as we continue our drive to invest in recovery and support our community and we look forward to getting moving on these projects working closely with our partners.”