A THURROCK arts charity helping vulnerable and disadvantaged people through creativity has been recognised at one of Essex's most respected civic award ceremonies.

Get Started Art was honoured at the annual Essex High Sheriff's Awards, held at Hylands House in Chelmsford and attended by around 200 guests from charities, voluntary organisations and public services across the county.

Hosted by the High Sheriff of Essex, Julie Fosh DL, the event celebrates organisations working to address crime, anti-social behaviour and community safety, while supporting vulnerable people and strengthening local communities.

This year's ceremony saw trophies, certificates and 29 grants totalling £162,000 presented to projects across Essex.

Supported by Essex County Council, Chelmsford City Council, Essex County Fire & Rescue Service and the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, the event was compered by Steve Scruton and Ian Wyatt, with conversations from the evening later shared on BBC Essex.

Julie Fosh DL, High Sheriff of Essex, said: "The Awards event provides a wonderful opportunity to recognise publicly the significant contribution that charities and voluntary groups make in our communities. It is a privilege to reward the outstanding work being undertaken across Essex that helps build and sustain safer communities."

Get Started Art was recognised for its work using accessible art activities to support vulnerable and disadvantaged children and adults, including victims of crime, helping improve wellbeing, build confidence and strengthen communities.

David Barton, Founder of Get Started Art, said: "It's a real honour for Get Started Art to be recognised alongside so many organisations doing important work across Essex. Creativity can be a simple but powerful way to help people rebuild confidence, support wellbeing and bring communities together. This recognition belongs to everyone who supports the charity and helps make that work possible."

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The High Sheriff's Awards highlight projects addressing a wide range of social challenges, from youth support and mental health initiatives to programmes that help create safer and more connected communities.

Over the years, hundreds of organisations across Essex have been recognised for their contribution to improving lives throughout the county.