News | Thurrock Council

Thurrock celebrates the incredible dedication of its foster carers

2 March 2026

Foster carers from across Thurrock came together on Friday 27 February for a special celebration recognising the vital role they play in supporting some of the borough’s most vulnerable children and young people.
The annual Foster Carer Celebration Event and Awards Ceremony was once again held at Ye Olde Plough House in Bulphan, where carers were thanked for the important work they do to provide Thurrock’s looked-after young people with a stable, loving home.

Thurrock chosen as one of seven local authorities to lead major government pilot

27 February 2026

Thurrock has been selected as one of only seven local authorities across England to take part in a landmark national pilot bringing new financial support and improved services to kinship carers.
Over £126m has been confirmed to support up to 5,000 families across the seven local authorities during the pilot, which will help to support family members such as grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends who step in to raise a child when their parents cannot.

Families across Thurrock benefit from early learning programmes

27 February 2026

Families across Thurrock can access a range of early learning programmes designed to strengthen their child’s communication, language and early numeracy skills.
Thurrock’s Family Hubs are offering evidence-based programmes such as Early Words Together and Peep Learning Together (PEEP), which help parents and carers feel more confident supporting their child’s development through simple, everyday activities like talking, playing and sharing books.

Nominations open for the 2026 SEND and Alternative Provision Awards

27 February 2026

Thurrock Council is delighted to announce the return of the SEND and Alternative Provision Awards for 2026, celebrating the remarkable achievements of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those in Alternative Provision across the borough.
Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the awards are back once again to shine a spotlight on inspirational individuals aged 0–25 who demonstrate resilience, determination, creativity, and progress in their everyday lives.

International Women's Day - We welcome you to our events on Wednesday 4 March

26 February 2026

We are marking International Women's Day with a range of different events in our Civic Offices, on Wednesday 4 March between 10am - 2pm.
The day will include an inspiring panel discussion in celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, exploring this year’s theme: 'Give To Gain'. This event brings together a diverse panel of local leaders and changemakers to discuss the urgent steps needed to drive progress in gender equality and empower women in our communities.
Everyone is welcome and you can book your place here:

Thurrock Council Budget approved for 2026/27

26 February 2026

investment in key areas while delivering £13.9m in savings in the coming year.
Yesterday’s Budget Council meeting also approved a Council Tax increase within government limits of a 2.99% increase and a further 2% adult social care precept. This approach reflects the position facing most councils across the country. For a Band D property this is an increase of £1.73 a week, or £89.73 a year, on the Thurrock Council element.

Housing Solutions plan to improve service for those at the risk of homelessness

19 February 2026

A new plan approved by Cabinet on Wednesday 18 February will strengthen how Thurrock Council supports residents who are at risk of homelessness, helping to provide a more consistent, timely, and effective service.
In recent years the council has experienced increasing pressure within its homelessness service, reflected particularly in the rising number of households requiring temporary accommodation. This has created significant operational and financial challenges, as well as increased demand for early support and prevention work.

Thurrock Council sets out road map for a better housing service which puts local voices at the heart of progress

19 February 2026

A Housing Improvement Action Plan will help council tenants have a louder voice in how the service is run and give councillors more oversight into how the service works and improves.
The plan, which was approved by Cabinet on Wednesday 18 February, follows the Local Government Association’s Social Housing Peer Challenge and an external review of its 30‑year Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan took place at the end of last year.

Donated computers find new home to help tackle digital poverty

19 February 2026

45 local children now have a computer thanks to a new initiative from local digital charity, Every Child Online, supported by Thurrock Council.
Cllr Vikki Hartstean, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Community Safety, attended a special event at Grays Library on Tuesday 17 February where computer desktop kits were handed over to local young people.

Important information for parents and carers after measles outbreak

18 February 2026

There is currently a significant measles outbreak in North London, and some children have needed hospital care. Because Thurrock, Southend and Essex are close to London and well connected by transport, it is very likely that we will see cases here too.
Measles spreads extremely easily, and children who are not vaccinated are much more likely to become seriously unwell. The MMR vaccine is the safest and most effective way to protect your child.