SOUTH Essex College, which has a campus in the heart of Grays, has joined a national initiative to help its staff and students support and connect with the local community, particularly by supporting foodbanks.

The 'Good for ME Good for FE' campaign aims to generate £1m of social value via a programme of community action including volunteering, fundraising and charitable partnerships.

More than 100 colleges have already joined the campaign which builds on the huge success of 'FE Foodbank Friday'. This saw colleges around the country come together during the pandemic to raise more than £47,000 and collect 20,000 items for local foodbanks.

With demand for Foodbanks remaining high, this strand of activity will continue as part of 'Good for Me Good for FE', to ensure that communities continue to be supported with basic food needs.

The college plans to collect food bank items for local foodbanks via The Trussell Trust plus offer the opportunity for individuals to donate at its catering outlets when purchasing meals.

In addition, staff and students who are keen to undertake voluntary and fundraising activities will be supported to do so. There is a strong link between volunteering and improved mental health – a current key priority for colleges and their staff following such a challenging year.

Brad Brooks, Assistant Principal Student Experience, said: "We are delighted to be involved in this exciting and important initiative. Working in partnership with colleges around the country means that we can have a really positive impact on both our own communities and those further afield.

"Colleges play a vital role as Anchor Institutions, which goes way beyond just education. Generating social value is key to helping our communities to prosper, particularly as economies begin to recover post-pandemic.

"We also know that helping others supports mental health and wellbeing – so this is certainly something we are keen to encourage via 'Good for Me Good for FE'."