Essex County Council

13/06/2026

Wishing His Majesty King Charles III a very happy official birthday.

Across Essex, people will be marking the day in different ways, through local events or simply taking a moment to reflect.

It’s an opportunity to recognise a lifetime of public service and the role this occasion plays in bringing communities together.

We hope everyone marking the day enjoys the celebrations.

12/06/2026

The Chairman of Essex County Council, Cllr Karen McIvor, will attend the King’s Birthday Royal Salute at Lower Castle Park, Colchester, on Saturday 13 June to mark the official birthday of His Majesty King Charles III.

The event will bring together members of the Armed Forces, local representatives and residents to recognise the service and dedication of military personnel based in Essex.

The celebration will feature a 21-gun Royal Salute fired by I Parachute Battery (Bull’s Troop), by a battery of six 105 mm Light Guns, the same type used by 7 Para RHA in its operational role with the 16 Air Assault Brigade.

Also at the Royal Salute will be 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, alongside performances from the British Army Band Tidworth.

12/06/2026

Supporting young carers

Our cabinet members Cllr Paul Godfrey and Cllr Sue Truman visited a young carers youth club in Maldon earlier this week to meet with a group of amazing young carers.

It was a great opportunity to hear their stories and find out more about the positive impact of the club which is run by Action for Family Carers.

Link to support for young carers in the comments.

12/06/2026

Need help getting into work?

Connect to Work offers free, tailored support to help you overcome barriers and find a job that suits you.

Whether you’re living with a health condition, a disability, or part of a priority group, we’re here to help.

One-to-one coaching 👥
Training and skills development 📚
Job matching services 🔍

Take the first step today, no pressure, just friendly support.

To find out more, visit Essex Opportunities

12/06/2026

Our young carers service offers free personalised support to young carers and their families.

There are an estimated 10,000 young carers in Essex, some as young as five years old. Many young people don’t see themselves as carers and may not realise the support available in Essex.

Both young carers, under 18, and young adult carers aged between 16 and 24 can access support from this service.

Support includes:

confidential one-to-one key worker support
information, advice and guidance
carers assessment to identify the most suitable support for their individual needs
training opportunities
recreational activities that offer time away from their caring role
referrals for specialist support, counselling, emotional support and peer support
support with transitioning to adult carer services when they turn 18

To find out more visit our website and search "Young Carers" or visit the link in the comments below.

12/06/2026

Meet Cllr Chris Hossack, Cabinet Member for Residents and Communities.

Chris brings over 20 years of local government experience, including leadership at Brentwood Borough Council.

Chris is passionate about working with community groups, supporting volunteers, improving public health, and making every interaction with Essex County Council as positive as possible.

Hear more below.

11/06/2026

Resident doctors will be taking industrial action from 7.00am on Monday 15 June 2026 until 6.59am on Friday 19 June 2026.

During this time, NHS services will continue to be available, but there may be some disruption.

• You will be contacted if your appointment needs to change. If you have not been contacted, please attend as planned
• Emergency care will continue as normal. If you have a life threatening emergency, call 999 or go to A&E
• GP practices and dental surgeries remain open
• Pharmacies can provide advice and treatment for minor conditions
• NHS 111 and NHS 111 online are available if you are unsure where to go

Strike action starts from 7am Monday 15 June and runs until 7am Friday 19 June. Some NHS services will be affected.

You will be contacted if your appointment needs to be changed.

Please continue to come forward for the care you need

11/06/2026

Would you know what to do if you were struggling in the water?

Float to Live could save your life.

• Tilt your head back with ears submerged
• Relax, breathe normally and move your hands and legs
to help you stay afloat
• It’s ok if your legs sink, we all float differently
• Once you’re over the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety

Remember it. Practise it. Share it. 💙

11/06/2026

Children often hear that va**ng is harmless or “just flavour”. That is not the full picture.

Having a short, simple chat before secondary school can help your child feel more confident later.

Find clear, trusted facts and support by heading to the link in our comments 👇🏼

Let’s help children feel informed, not confused 👍

11/06/2026

Make a real impact. Start your career in care today.

Looking for a meaningful career that fits your values?

Join us as a Children’s Care Home Worker and help shape brighter futures.

No experience? No problem. We’ll help you grow.

Apply now and start your journey in care. Visit our Working for Essex Talent Portal via the link in the comments below to find your perfect role.