Phoenix Futures Essex

Football should never be an excuse for abuse.
Evidence shows domestic abuse rises during major football tournaments, with incidents increasing by 38% when England lose and 26% when England play.
This isn’t just a statistic. It’s a reality for too many people.
If you’re worried about someone, or need support yourself, help is available.

Compass is our Domestic Abuse helpline for Essex call 0330 333 7 444 or visit essexcompass.org.uk

Every 90 minutes, somebody in the UK takes their own life - the same length as a football match, but with no extra time for the families and friends left behind.

By linking this message to the World Cup, we hope more men will see it, talk about it, and realise there’s a room full of people ready to listen. 👌

If you spot the campaign on a billboard near you, please take a photo and send it over to [email protected] 📸

Men’s Mental Health Week is a reminder that none of us should carry everything on our own. Life can feel heavy at times, but talking about what is going on inside is a sign of strength, not weakness. When we look out for one another, we make it easier for everyone to speak openly.

If someone you know seems quieter than usual, check in. If you are finding things tough yourself, reach out to someone you trust. A simple conversation can make a real difference.

Let’s create spaces where men feel safe to talk, to be honest and to be heard. We all deserve that kind of support.

🌅 Sunrise Dip in the Sea 🌅
It’s a special feeling, being at the seaside for sunrise. It’s even more special when you go in for a dip. Join us tomorrow morning for our sunrise dip and breakfast experience.

Everyone is welcome, especially first timers.

We supply the kit,
and the mindfulness practice to settle any nerves you have about taking part. We all feel nervous and that’s what makes it so amazing… the feeling of “I did it!” Afterwards. 😊

Our next dips are:
Sunday 7th June. 4am
Friday 19 June 3.45am
Sunday 5 July 4am
Friday 17 July 4.15 am
Sunday 02 August 4.45 am
Friday 21 August 5.15 am
Sunday 6th August 5.45 am

We meet at the beach hut for early dawn to take in the beautiful colours, get ready for the water and toes in at sunrise.

After a lovely float or splash, we dry off, change and enjoy a full pancake and bacon and fresh fruit breakfast in the beach hut.

Our dips are incredibly supportive and inclusive.
Tag a friend and come together. You’ll love it. ❤️

Book your ticket on our website ⬇️
https://www.blossome.support/event/sunrise-dip-2-4-2-4-2/2026-06-07/

✨ Volunteer Spotlight Dan's Journey ✨

“I wanted to share a little bit about my journey.
My connection with Phoenix began in January 2024, when I was referred for support following a really difficult time in my life. The kindness, care and encouragement I received made such a difference to me that I wanted to give something back.

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer with Phoenix, support groups in Harlow, take part in community voice events, and share my story to help challenge stigma and show that recovery is possible. It has helped me grow in confidence and strengthened my passion for supporting others.

I’ve also become involved in the Neurodiversity Working Group as Lead Peer Mentor, which means a lot to me personally.

Looking ahead, I’m hoping to continue building on this work and start a Level 3 Counselling Skills course in September, so I can keep supporting people in recovery and neurodiverse communities.

I’m really proud of how far I’ve come, and grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way. 💜”

We would like to thank Dan for his enthusiasm and support as a peer mentor.

Phoenix Essex has a manager vacancy for a new pilot 💜

We're Hiring!

Could you be the manager for our new pilot in Essex?

The pilot in North Essesx will focus on Colchester General Hospital A&E department, and the role will be based in our Colchester office, although travel may be required across North Essex to ensure effective service delivery.

For more information and to apply, click here!
https://careers.phoenixfutures.org.uk/internal/vacancy/team-manager-611722.html

Volunteer Week Celebration 🌟

Today marked day two of our new cohort of Peer Mentor Volunteers, and what a fantastic session it was! 👏

Our group of 8 Peer Mentor Volunteers spent the session listening and sharing, and it’s been great to see how well they’ve already gelled together. 💬🤝

We also focused on communication and inclusion, exploring ways to build stronger, more supportive connections with the people we work alongside.

A special thank you to one of our current Peer Mentors, Dan, who shared his experiences with the group. Dan spoke about the work happening across Essex to better support staff, clients, and Peer Mentor Volunteers (PMVs) with Nerodiversity's. He is part of the Neurodiversity Working Group, where he collaborates with staff and management to help shape more inclusive approaches across our services.

It’s inspiring to see our volunteers not only growing in their roles but also actively contributing to meaningful change. 💜