THURROCK Council's recently-appointed cabinet member for communities and equalities says he is keen to start building more bridges between the authority and local residents and has already started a programme of meetings to share experiences.

Cllr Qaisar Abbas has already met with six local community groups to hear their experiences of supporting residents in Thurrock.

The meetings, which also include the participation of members of the council's communities team, were arranged to give local groups a chance to share ideas and talk through the practical ways in which the council can better support them.

Cllr Abbas said: "I am very keen to meet local voluntary sector, community and faith organisations to hear about their work and to work together to ensure we are engaging and empowering our communities in a meaningful way. 

"I believe together we can achieve much more to further improve the lives of local people. The voluntary sector has a key role to play in this and I am keen to listen to their experiences and ideas.

"Thank you for all you do to support local residents, I look forward to meeting you to learn more about your work in Thurrock".

Regular sessions in the new civic offices building will take place over the coming months. If you would like to arrange a meeting with Cllr Abbas, contact [email protected] by email.