The Compassionate Community network in north east Essex has grown with the support of Compassionate Communities UK (CC-UK), a registered charity dedicated to fostering compassion within communities. 

Its mission is to recognise and enhance the natural gifts of compassion, togetherness, and equity among individuals, emphasising that these human qualities can be more powerful than medicine alone. 

CC-UK's approach is rooted in the belief that relationships with people and places play a central role in our lives, and that fostering compassion leads to healthier and happier communities. 

Colchester was awarded Compassionate City status by CC-UK in the summer of 2024, in recognition of the city's compassionate culture and strength of partnership, supported by a collaborative Compassionate Charter and action plan. 

Small gestures can make the biggest difference, and showing empathy and listening to people’s concerns can often be enough. Offering to help with specific tasks can be a relief to people when they are struggling to cope, such as collecting their food shopping or prescriptions, or perhaps identifying community projects, groups and services that are able to offer direct support.

Research also shows that gaining knowledge and planning early can significantly improve end of life care, ensuring better outcomes for individuals, their families, and carers. 

By understanding a patient’s options and discussing their wishes in advance, a plan can be put in place that provides comfort, clarity and peace of mind for everyone involved. 

You can get involved in many ways, such as volunteering, attending a training session, joining an event, taking part in an activity, or becoming a Compassionate Community Ambassador or being nominated as a Champion.  

We encourage you to take the first step today - – explore the resources available, ask questions, and start the conversation about what matters most to you and your loved ones.