The Geoffrey Sneed Engineering & STEM Scholarship Launches

20th February 2026

Dr Geoffrey Sneed (pictured above) devoted his life to learning, innovation and inspiring others through science and engineering. Raised in Ilford, he showed an early aptitude for maths, physics and engineering, which shaped his academic and professional career. 

After graduating from Imperial College London and completing a PhD, Geoffrey spent 15 years teaching physics, maths, chemistry and applied sciences at Ealing High School. Known for his forward-thinking approach, he helped establish one of the first purpose-built applied science laboratories in a state grammar school and developed specialist experimental equipment, with a strong focus on real-world application. 

Beyond the classroom, Geoffrey held senior academic and research roles, including as a research director at the University of Surrey, as well as appointments at the Science Museum and Imperial College. In 1979, he was awarded a Churchill Fellowship to study international approaches to science education and later received the Churchill Medal at 10 Downing Street. 

An inventor as well as an educator, Geoffrey created the Pulsometer, a medical chronograph watch designed to measure heart rate quickly. His work consistently reflected his belief that engineering should serve society and solve practical problems. 

Inspiring young people remained central to his life. He founded the Molecule Club, introducing children to science through a musical performance that toured schools across the Midlands. Alongside this, he maintained a lifelong interest in the motor industry, writing extensively about its engineering and history. 

When Geoffrey died in 2022 with no immediate family, he agreed that his estate should be used to establish a charitable fund in his name, recognising his lifelong contribution to education. 

A New Opportunity for Future Engineers 

This decision led to the creation of the Dr Geoffrey Sneed Engineering Scholarship, offering a new opportunity for academically able students across Essex who face financial barriers to higher education. 

Through ongoing financial support, the scholarship helps students focus on their studies and progress into careers where engineering and STEM knowledge can be used for wider societal benefit – values central to Geoffrey’s life and work. 

What the Scholarship Offers 

The scholarship provides financial support towards living costs while studying at university. Awards are made for an initial three-year period, with the potential for review for a fourth year, helping to ensure stability and continued support throughout a student’s degree.

Rajesh Bhramav who received funding to support his degree in Natural Sciences at Cambridge University shared :

“ The Dr Geoffrey Sneed Engineering Fund has had a truly meaningful impact on my journey through sixth form and into university. The books, financial support and academic resources provided were instrumental in supporting my A-level studies and university applications, and this support has enabled me to pursue my ambitions with confidence and make the most of the opportunities available at university. In addition, the encouragement and belief shown by the members of the Essex Community Fund has been truly invaluable.”

” The support from the Dr Geoffrey Sneed Engineering Fund has had a significant impact on my experience at Warwick and allowed me to immerse more fully in university life, especially at a difficult time in my life where the financial pressures on my family would have made it quite difficult for me to fully explore the opportunities here at Warwick. The Fund has supported my day-to-day living costs whilst also giving me the opportunity to join various societies and sports clubs, and this balance between academic focus and personal development has had an incredibly positive impact on my time so far at Warwick. I am incredibly grateful and indebted to the Fund and Essex Community Foundation for all their support.”

Interested in Applying?

If you live in Essex, East London/Essex border, are currently studying A Levels, and plan to progress to a STEM-based degree, particularly Engineering, you may be eligible to apply.

To find out more – Click here 

A Family Business That’s Giving Back

17th February 2026

William (Bill) Stacey was a generous man who believed in giving something back, and the charitable fund set up in his name more than a decade ago is continuing that legacy. 

Children who need extra support, including those with dyslexia, are being helped to build brighter futures thanks to a fund created in memory of a big-hearted Essex businessman. 

The W G Stacey Family Fund, managed by Essex Community Foundation (ECF), was established just over 10 years ago in honour of William George Stacey, founder of Chelmsford-based DCS Ltd, now a leading UK distributor of catering disposables, food packaging and hygiene products. 

William (Bill) Stacey was a generous man who believed in giving something back…

After Bill (pictured below) died from cancer in 2012, his family set up the fund to continue his ethos of helping others. Grants are distributed to Essex causes close to the family’s hearts, including initiatives supporting children with additional needs.

Bill’s son Paul, commercial director of DCS Ltd, said: 

“ Dad would have been proud to have a charitable fund set up in his memory. He was a character nobody would forget, and he was a generous man who believed in giving something back. He supported various charities and always wanted to help people less fortunate than himself.

“When he moved from Upminster to South Woodham Ferrers in 1980, he started the business in his garage at home, with his office in the bedroom of our house.

“With the support of his wife June and some great neighbours he built up the business, going around the local area promoting the goods across local pubs and other establishments.

“Since 1980, we’ve grown from a local disposables supplier into the UK’s fastest-growing independent distributor of non-food consumables, supplying businesses across hospitality, healthcare, education and facilities management.

“DCS now has a turnover of £30 million, employs 90 people, has three warehouses and a fleet of 28 vehicles. We are in partnership with DX covering the midlands and the north and we are also the parent company of A Good Decision, our dedicated brand for carbon-conscious packaging and hygiene solutions. ” 

Paul added: 

“The W G Stacey Family Fund carries forward Bill’s vision of determination, compassion and community.

“At DCS Ltd, our heart has always been in Chelmsford, where our journey began more than four decades ago. Over the years, we’ve grown into a trusted leader in sustainable food packaging and hygiene solutions, working with businesses across the UK to deliver products that reduce environmental impact and support responsible operations.

“As we’ve evolved, one thing has remained constant, our commitment to giving back to the communities where we live and work.

“Through the WG Stacey Family Fund, we continue to champion causes that reflect our values and our long-standing belief in building a better future. The Fund has a focus on children who need support and the protection of wildlife, to ensure future generations can enjoy a thriving environment.

“For over 10 years, we’ve ensured that thousands of children receive a Christmas gift, sharing the joy of the festive season with those who need it most.

“In 2026 and beyond, we will strengthen our focus on supporting children with learning difficulties, an issue that touches many families, including those of our own employees.

“Every initiative reflects our belief that better businesses build better communities.

“The WG Stacey Family Fund is more than philanthropy, it’s our way of ensuring William George Stacey’s legacy continues to inspire good decisions for generations to come.” 

W G Stacey Family Fund

Since it was set up with ECF in 2012, the W G Stacey Family Fund has given over £17,000 to support a wide range of charities including:

Paul Stacey (right) with his brother, and fellow DCS director, James Stacey

Paul’s wife Carol and their children Holly, Lauren and Aimee

City of Chelmsford Mencap

£655 to provide a range of activities and respite opportunities for members of a charity supporting people with learning disabilities.

Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund

£1,254 to help deliver support and activities for teenagers and their families diagnosed and living with cancer.  These included a trip to the O2.

SNAP (Special Needs and Parents)

£1,441 towards the cost of running holiday clubs for children with additional needs and disabilities in Brentwood, Basildon and other areas of Essex.

Gold Geese

£1,634 to support the ongoing cost of mental health therapy for a local children’s cancer charity working in Basildon and Southend.

Start your giving now or leave a legacy in your will

If you would like to set up a Fund with ECF in memory of a loved one, your family name or your business, get in touch with Perry Norton, Head of Development at ECF to have a conversation. 

Tel:  01245 355947  E-mail: perry@essexcf.org.uk

Lower Thames Crossing Community Fund Now Open for 2026 Applications

10th February 2026

National Highways has opened the £1.9 million Lower Thames Crossing Community Fund for 2026, supporting charities and community groups across Thurrock, Brentwood and Havering. 

The fund provides grants of up to £10,000 to organisations working to improve the lives of people living in communities close to the Lower Thames Crossing, a major new road linking Essex and Kent via a tunnel beneath the River Thames. 

The Community Fund builds on the success of a pilot programme in 2023, which awarded £250,000 to 55 community and environmental projects on both sides of the river. Learning from that pilot has helped shape the design and delivery of this larger, construction-phase fund. 

About the Community Fund 

The Lower Thames Crossing Community Fund is delivered through National Highways’ Designated Funds programme, a national scheme designed to provide lasting benefits for communities and the environment beyond the organisation’s core role of operating and maintaining England’s motorways and A-roads. 

The funding is separate from the Lower Thames Crossing core project budget, which remains subject to government approval. 

Supporting communities during construction 

Applications for projects north of the River Thames are being independently managed by Essex Community Foundation (ECF). Projects south of the river, including those in Medway and Gravesham, should apply via the Kent Community Foundation. 

As construction of the Lower Thames Crossing begins, the fund offers local organisations an important opportunity to secure investment that will deliver lasting benefits for their communities. 

Zoe Brampton, Grants Manager at Essex Community Foundation, said: 

“We’re delighted to support the Lower Thames Crossing Community Fund, giving local charities and community groups the opportunity to deliver projects that make a real difference. The 2023 pilot showed how much impact targeted, local investment can have, and we’re excited to see new projects bring positive change and lasting benefits for people across Thurrock, Brentwood and Havering.” 

Find out more and apply 

This Opportunity is now closed.

Full details about eligibility, priority areas and how to apply are available on our Lower Thames Crossing Community Fund webpage.

This opportunity is now closed.

Applications must be submitted using the online application form. Organisations that experience difficulty applying online can contact the grants team to arrange an alternative submission method. 

Final funding decisions will be shared with applicants in May 2026, following the panel meeting. 

Organisations are encouraged to discuss their project ideas before applying. To speak with the grants team, applicants can book a call or contact ECF on 01245 355947. 

Surviving Winter Appeal

8th December 2025

This Winter, Essex’s Most Vulnerable Need Your Help 

As winter draws near, many older and vulnerable people in Essex may have to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table. It’s a choice no one should have to make, and with your support, they won’t have to. 

Since 2011, the ECF Surviving Winter Appeal has raised nearly £106,855 for local charities, helping vulnerable people stay safe, warm, and well. This year we have launched the Appeal again to raise vital funds for those who need extra support during winter. Your donation will help provide: 

• Grants to cover fuel and food costs 

• Activities to reduce loneliness and isolation 

• Access to specialist services and community groups 

Perry Norton, Head of Development at ECF, says:
“No one should have to choose between heating their home or putting food on the table. Every donation to the Surviving Winter Appeal helps vulnerable people in Essex stay warm, nourished, and connected with their community during the coldest months of the year. Together, we can make a real difference.” 

In previous years, your generosity has helped provide: 

• Winter clothing packs for those in need 

• Lunch clubs offering warmth, companionship, and a hot meal 

• Extra beds for homeless charities during the coldest months 

How you can help: 

• Donate your Winter Fuel Payment or Energy Rebate if you don’t need it 

• Make a one-off donation or set up a regular monthly gift 

• Send a cheque to: Essex Community Foundation, 3 Hoffmanns Way, Chelmsford, CM1 1GU 

• Call 01245 355947 for questions or alternative ways to give 

Give today and help Essex’s most vulnerable stay warm, fed, and connected this winter. 

Looking Ahead Together: Meet Our New Chair and Trustees

28th November 2025

Last week, we came together at Little Channels Golf Club for our AGM a chance to celebrate a fantastic year and look ahead to the next chapter of ECF. Around 60 members and new fundholders joined us to reflect on our achievements and meet our new leadership team. 

After six incredible years as Chair and 8 years overall as a trustee, Nick Alston CBE DL stepped down, handing the reins to Atul Manek. Nick’s leadership has been truly transformative, guiding ECF through the challenges of COVID-19, growing our reach, and helping us manage over 200 charitable funds while awarding £60 million to local charities. His dedication to supporting the voluntary sector and fostering collaboration across Essex has left a lasting mark, and we are hugely grateful for everything he’s done. 

We also said farewell to trustees Sandra Hollis and Simon Hall MBE DL, thanking them for their dedication and invaluable contributions over the years. Their commitment has helped shape ECF into the organisation it is today. 

We were also delighted to welcome two new trustees and a new chair: 

• Atul Manek (Chair): Atul brings extensive experience in financial services and governance, along with a strong commitment to social impact. He will lead ECF as we work towards our 2030 strategy and continue supporting communities across Essex. 

• Naz Biggs: Naz works at Impact on Urban Health, focusing on reducing health inequalities in Lambeth and Southwark. With experience across sectors such as higher education, civil service, and international development, Naz also supports funders across London as a trustee of London Funders. 

• Gillian Hayter: Based in Great Yeldham, Gillian runs her own consultancy and has a long history of community involvement in Essex. A former Trustee and Vice Chair of the Rural Community Council of Essex and a Justice of the Peace, she brings governance expertise and a passion for supporting local charities. 

The AGM also gave everyone the opportunity to explore our Annual Review and ask questions about our work and plans for the future. It was wonderful to see so much engagement and enthusiasm from our members and fundholders. 

As we celebrate the past and welcome our new leadership, we’re filled with optimism for what’s to come. With your continued support, ECF is ready to keep making a lasting difference across Essex. 

National Care Leavers Month 

27th November 2025

ECF is proud to be one of 31 community foundations supporting the Care Leavers Programme across the UK. Launched in 2024 by UK Community Foundations and the Local Authorities’ Mutual Investment Trust, in partnership with CCLA Investment Management, the multi-year programme helps care leavers aged 16–25 thrive as they transition to adulthood. 

In its first year, the programme supported over 2,000 young people, funding 59 organisations and 411 individuals directly. The new report, published on 25 November during National Care Leavers Month, highlights the programme’s impact so far. 

To read about the difference the Care Leavers Programme is making, see the full report here.