Basildon Council won two awards at the Housing Excellence Awards last week (10 October) for partnership working and skills development.
The South Essex Domestic Abuse Hub (SEDAH) won the partnership award for its work to help some of our most vulnerable residents.
The panel judged that this was an ‘outstanding entry’ because of the complex multi-agency nature of the project and its success in securing funding, along with clear evidence of its achievements.
The South Essex Domestic Abuse Hub brought together Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford and Thurrock Councils with Changing Pathways and South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre (SERICC) to deliver improved services for victims of domestic abuse. This partnership has ensured that emergency refuge accommodation has remained available and is now providing support for around 40 new clients every month.
Councillor Aidan McGurran, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the External Affairs, Partnerships and Liaison Committee, said: “Domestic abuse is a serious issue that can affect people from all areas of our community. The hub was a big step towards keeping victims of domestic abuse safe from harm and is an example of what can be achieved when partners work together.”
SECTA and The Advice Store in Basildon’s town centre won the skills award for Basildon Council and Southend Council for its work in developing a skilled workforce needed to deliver regeneration and housing projects in South Essex.
The South Essex Construction Training Academies (SECTA) project received funding of £1million from the Construction Skills Fund. The project aims to get approximately 600 new entrants closer to gaining employment within the construction sector.
The Advice Store works to break down misconceptions and show people just how rewarding a career in construction can be. Through advice, training and support, they are helping to bridge the gap in the skills shortage.
The panel judged it was an ‘excellent example of collaboration and innovation. Good progress has been made to-date on the delivery of construction skills in South Essex and meeting various targets’.
Councillor Adele Brown, Chairman of the Infrastructure and Inclusive Growth Committee said: “We are committed to making sure that local people are fully supported in accessing skills development opportunities that help them gain meaningful employment. The Advice Store has helped us do that as well as support major construction projects in South Essex.”
