Chelmsford CVS welcomed more than 190 people from across local sectors, including charity leaders, community organisers, health professionals and dignitaries to it’s bi-annual Charity Update Event at Chelmsford Cathedral.
The event provided charity sector representatives with updates on partnership working with local and health authorities, while celebrating the importance of our local Third Sector.
Reflecting on past achievements and overcoming challenges
Chief Officer of Chelmsford CVS, Lorraine Jarvis, opened the event by reflecting on the fantastic achievements of the CVS in its 32 years of operation, as well as the many challenges overcome in that time too. She gave thanks to the dedicated and talented team of volunteers and trustees that go above and beyond in their work.
Attendees also heard keynote presentations from Nick Eveleigh, Chief Executive of Chelmsford City Council, and James Halden, Chief of Staff at the NHS Essex Integrated Care Board. They shared expert insight into how the voluntary sector is responding to significant changes in health and local authority structures. With organisations of all sizes facing a shifting landscape, the speakers outlined what these changes mean in practice, the potential impact on services, and how the sector can position itself for the future.
Their presentations also highlighted the importance of collaboration, local knowledge and strong partnerships, with an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and explore how they can continue supporting their communities effectively.
Awards celebrating outstanding volunteers
The Chelmsford Awards for Voluntary Service were also presented, recognising the outstanding contributions of local people to volunteering across the district, who support local charities and strengthen the community. Nominations are submitted by residents, with winners chosen by a panel chaired by the mayor. The awards were presented by the Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Jannetta Sosin. Read more about the winners here.
Lorraine Jarvis, Chief Officer of Chelmsford CVS, was proud to recognise the incredible volunteering acts taking place in the Chelmsford community:
“In these times especially, we continue to be blown away by the strength, ambition and resilience of our voluntary sector across Chelmsford, its villages and South Woodham Ferrers. Thriving communities don’t happen by accident – they are built through opportunities to connect, to volunteer, and to access support that meets people’s needs.
“Our voluntary and community sector plays a vital role in this, providing a network of help, relationships and coordination that often goes unseen. Despite the challenges we face, it is these strong local connections and deep understanding of our communities that enable us to support those who need it most and ensure every voice is heard.”
Following the awards ceremony, event attendees celebrated and networked with refreshments and cake provided by New City Girls WI.
