ATF

Here at South Essex Homes, we understand that we are living in challenging times, with people dealing with financial hardship and lots of other pressures. Residents in some areas have told us that don’t always feel safe living in their communities and that concerns about anti-social behaviour or even criminal activity affect their ability to fully enjoy their homes and neighbourhoods. We want to change this and help residents feel happy and confident and have been working closely with local charity Achieve Thrive Flourish (ATF), to help strengthen our sense of togetherness and wellbeing within our neighbourhoods.

ATF now offer a wide range of fun, positive and inclusive opportunities such as participation in sport, heritage, cultural, and creative activities, which help to bring people together, build confidence and skills and open up new horizons.

Through the work that ATF are doing, we hope that the participants feel an improvement in their mental health and aim for them to feel more connected with a sense of renewed purpose and community. ATF have been involved in local community projects at Avon Way and Queensway enhancing the area and similar projects are planned for 2025. 

As well as participating in fun and interesting activities, there are various opportunities for residents to get involved in volunteering in a safe and nurturing environment, leading to new skills and opportunities to gain employment. 

ATF’s youth sessions running in Queensway and Warrior square build connection, focus and achievements as well as a sense of friendship, support and community and many young participants have gone on to become “Young Leaders” who in turn support others.

All ages can benefit from ATF’s free activities, whether it’s the Stay and Play sessions for toddlers and parents, welcoming youth clubs, or their fun seated exercise sessions for older adults.

Through the summer last year and due to be bought back again in 2025, Queensway residents enjoyed many fun Beach Days, where kids and family members could come together and have a lot of fun in a safe and welcoming environment.  ATF have also taken on the lease of the Hive at Garon Park and will be welcoming residents throughout the year for free activities, picnic days and low cost events. 

We would urge all residents to get involved! Find out more on their website here or take a look at their Southend timetable below: About ATF — Achieve Thrive Flourish