Voluntary Action Epping Forest, 3Food4U and Waltham Abbey Youth 2000 were recognised for their work at the prestigious Essex High Sheriff Awards at Hylands House, Chelmsford.

Charles Bishop, the 843rd High Sheriff of Essex paid tribute to the work of the community and voluntary sector in addressing crime and anti-social behaviour and improving community safety.

Each of the three organisations received a cheque to support their work, along with 23 other nominated community groups and voluntary organisations from across Essex.

The High Sheriff of Essex, Charles Bishop said, “The rising cost of living is putting pressure on charities as they try to pay their bills, alongside an increasing demand for their services and support.

"The Awards event provides a wonderful opportunity for me, and other attendees, to recognise the significant contribution these organisations make in our communities.

"It is a privilege to be able to reward their outstanding work and that of the wider voluntary sector, being undertaken in Essex that is helping to build and sustain safer communities”.

Voluntary Action Epping Forest was recognised for its work in supporting families seeking asylum and running a youth project in Ongar which helps integrate young people into the local community.

3Food4U was recognised for its work in recently opening a new community centre in Waltham Abbey, hosting a wide programme of free-to-access activities and its focus on improving health and wellbeing.

Waltham Abbey Youth 2000 was recognised for its long-standing young people’s counselling service and providing funding to continue to provide this support.

VAEF Chief Officer, Jacqui Foile said, “The Essex High Sheriff Awards is a lovely occasion and a chance to see just how much great work is being done across Essex in the community and voluntary sector.

"We are very grateful to Essex Community Foundation and The High Sheriff Award for all their work in financially supporting and placing a spotlight on the unsung heroes and local initiatives in our communities”.

  • Lisa Sharp is from Voluntary Action Epping Forest.

Voluntary Action Epping Forest - Making a difference to people and families in Epping Forest: vaef.org.uk