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16 Essex Community Foundation Annual Review 2025Families under pressureWithout an appropriate school uniform, children can often experience feelings of isolation and bullying. Dynamic New Anglian Networks based in Colchester run projects aimed at helping anyone who is in need through hardship or circumstance. We supported their Free School Uniform project which provides low-income families in Colchester with recycled school uniforms and sportswear, ensuring that children can be confident when they attend school. Welfare adviceSince 1985, the dedicated staff and volunteers at DIAL South Essexhave been providing support, advice, guidance and advocacy to people with disabilities, helping them on a range of topics including benefits, signposting, referrals, leisure and access. We supported the core costs of this vital organisation with a grant of %u00a310,000. Community spotlight %u2013 poverty and disadvantageDeprivation is not just about money, it%u2019s also about isolation, poor housing, limited transport, and a lack of community infrastructure. Local charities combine practical help with emotional support, ensuring people feel less isolated, know where to turn and are treated with dignity.Andy Payne-Worpole, Director of Policy and ProgrammesThis year, we saw an increase in the number of grants paid to charities helping people who are struggling to manage in everyday life.These grants totalled %u00a3666,452 and include projects that offer a support to those who are in difficult circumstances, including families who are juggling rent arrears and food insecurity, older people who have fallen into debt and temporary accommodation and advocacy for those who are homeless.FACTS%u2022 Deprivation is most acute in coastal towns: 31% of residents in Clacton and Harwich (44,000 people) and 23% in Southend(40,800 people).%u2022 In Tendring, Harlow and Basildon, nearly 1 in 3 children are eligible for Free School Meals%u2022 55% of households in Tendring District have a discretionary income of less than %u00a3125 per month.Dial South Essex.The team at DIAL South Essex.DNA Networks Free School Uniform project in Colchester.