Chelmsford College Make a Difference at Shaping Essex Assembly

Staff and learners of Chelmsford College visited Chelmsford Cathedral to join the Shaping Essex Assembly hosted by Citizens Essex on the 24th March. Alongside them were 146 Citizens Essex leaders, representing schools, colleges, universities, faith groups and community organisations. Their presence helped build trust and tackle the issues of transport, mental health and housing together.

Coming from Chelmsford, Colchester and Southend, the Assembly brought the local areas together spanning people of all ages and backgrounds from across the county. David Warnes, the Principal and CEO of Chelmsford College, is also the proud Co-Chair of Citizens Essex, so he warmly opened the event welcoming and thanking everyone for their attendance. The night included sharing joyous stories, 1:1 conversations, a band from the Salvation Army playing and collective action. From the very beginning, the atmosphere was vibrant and full. Throughout the event, over 700 conversations took place, strengthening the commitment and trust between people from across Essex.

Handling the topics of transport, mental health and housing with care, learners and community members spoke firsthand about the challenges, including the affordability and safety of public transport to the growing pressures on mental health services and the need for fair and accessible housing. Daniel Holland, Student Governor for Chelmsford College, made the College very proud as he spoke honestly about the impact of unreliable, unsafe and expensive buses across Essex.

The Assembly will spark future campaigns in the run up to the Mayoral elections in 2028, meaning all the shared challenges discussed helped shape potential solutions. The Leaders reflected on proposals, gave ideas of their own and recognised next steps.

The event ended with attendees raising ribbons to symbolise solidarity and a shared commitment to making Essex a safer, fairer and more inclusive place to live.

Chelmsford College would like to thank Citizens Essex for hosting such an inspiring Assembly and would like to congratulate the learners and staff who attended including Daniel and David.