Compassionate community meet-ups

Compassionate Community Meetups are an opportunityto be part of a group of people, places and projects who are helping build networks of support for others experiencing life’s biggest challenges.

These social events are FREE to attend and include presentations at 10am followed by networking and also a group walk for those who wish to participate. 

Find out how other local community assets can support your friends, family, colleagues, and neighbours at times of most need. 

*Please note that Photography and filming may take place at our events. Images may be used to promote this event and the work of Compassionate Communities. Please speak to staff if you do not wish to be filmed or photographed.*

These are our future dates & venues: 

Friday 7th November 2025 – Patch, 24 Trinity St, Colchester CO1 1JN

Friday 5th December 2025 - venue TBC

Friday 6^th February – venue TBC

Friday 6^th March – venue TBC

Compassionate Businesses Network

This is a unique opportunity for you to be part of a business network for leaders and influencers who leverage compassion as a business advantage, not only a soft skill.

The Compassionate Business Network is supported by St Helena Hospice and Compassionate Communities northeast Essex.

This network exists to bring kind and compassionate people and organisations together with a common aim to champion human-first leadership skills in north-east Essex, supportingthe Compassionate Communities mission to help improve the lives of people confronted with serious or life-limiting illness, ageing, caregiving, loss and isolation through social connectedness, kindness and compassion.

Please do come along, get involved, and help this network thrive!

Pre-registration is required. Tickets cost £15.00 and include refreshments on arrival + parking. Any proceeds are used to benefit the aims of this network, attendees and the community.

*All booking information provided by attendees will be held confidentially in order to organise and administer event attendance.

**Please inform organisers on arrival at our events if you do not wish to be filmed or photographed.

Compassionate community steering group

Our steering group is a collaborative network of individuals, organisations and community groups dedicated to fostering a culture of care and compassion in north east Essex.  

The group works together to promote and support initiatives that enhance wellbeing, improve end of life experiences, and strengthen community connections. 

It aims to inspire and empower people to build a more compassionate and inclusive community. Meetings take place bi-monthly and are generally held in person, sometimes online. 

If you’re passionate about making a difference and would like to stay connected with the latest updates, events, and opportunities we invite you to join our member circulation list by emailing: compassionatecommunities@sthelena.org.uk 

Compassionate walks

Walking has many proven health and wellbeing benefits that enable you to get some fresh air, gentle exercise, and to meet new people in a safe and friendly space. 

If you or a loved one is facing a health crisis or personal loss, you’d like to meet some new people, or you want to start walking to help keep fit but would like support, why not join a local walk. 

Follow the links to The Mental Health Runner, Community360 and CVS Tendring for more information about organised local walks. 

Hospice meet & greet invitation