Active Essex has journeyed through many chapters since its inception, born from the legacy of London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. Over the years, I have witnessed the organisation grow, adapt and evolve amidst an ever-shifting landscape.
This month, my reflections centre on the theme of turning the page to a new chapter– taking stock, analysing our progress, embracing challenges, and above all, staying relevant and impactful.
Although we have doubled in size since 2012, I am not an advocate for growth for growth’s sake. Our scale and size must reflect the appetite for our sport and physical activity agenda and being bold and courageous in taking the opportunities that present themselves. I am delighted that there is an ever-growing appetite to get our communities across Greater Essex more active, with us ready to play a key role in leading this exciting movement. For me, growth is also about growing the team, developing and empowering them, while solidifying a clear and inspiring purpose.
Over the past 6 months, Active Essex has undergone an important transition. It’s not been easy, but by realigning our staff and embracing new ways of working, we are continually improving as an outcome-focused organisation. My belief is that this will enable us to measure and demonstrate our impact more effectively, enabling the team to work smarter, not just harder.
April marks the start of this new chapter for Active Essex, with an enhanced staff structure and a new reinvigorated mission. It marks the conclusion of the Essex Local Delivery Pilot, we now transition into six place partnerships, underpinned by a universal offer for all other places.
Active Essex used to have the strapline ‘Changing 1 million lives’. While this remains a cornerstone of our heritage, our mission has evolved. As we navigate the complexities of devolution, NHS reform and the political and funding landscape, our work now transcends the traditional boundaries of sport. To reflect this, we have evolved our visual identity with a sub-descriptor added to our logo – Creating the conditions for communities to thrive.
This new chapter is not just about Active Essex – it’s about the journey we share with our communities, places, partners and stakeholders as we all strive together to achieve our common purpose.
If you would like to understand the journey Active Essex have been on over the last few years to get us to where we are now, please see our impact here.
