News

Adoption training was the catalyst to fostering for Gary 

20 November 2025
We spoke to Gary, 56 and his wife Caroline, who were inspired to start fostering after hearing a story during adoption training that stuck with them for years. 

The couple have been a fostering family for 12 years. They have two daughters, aged 17 and 20. 

Thurrock Council encourages local organisations and residents to have their say as consultation launched on local government in Essex

19 November 2025
The government has announced today (19 November 2025) that a comprehensive public consultation into the shape of local government in Essex has now begun.
Following the submission by local authorities to ministers of proposals for change, the government is now inviting residents, businesses, the voluntary, community and faith sector and others to get involved and have their say on which of the options they prefer.

Thurrock celebrates Care Leavers' Month with inspiring events and skills training

18 November 2025
Thurrock Council’s care leavers have enjoyed a series of fantastic events in celebration of National Care Leavers' Month.
A range of social activities and inspiring sessions were organised for the young people, including a bonfire and outdoor Cinema Night, a staff versus young people football tournament, bowling, an aftercare celebration, and a cultural diversity event celebrating the richness of different cultures across our care leaver population.

Local group of volunteers win King’s Award for Voluntary Service

18 November 2025
We’re thrilled to share that 1st Ockendon Cub Pack has been honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), which is the highest national award a voluntary group can receive in the UK!
This incredible group of volunteers goes above and beyond to provide an engaging, inclusive, and life-changing experience for local young people. With 50 cubs attending regularly, they offer camping trips, practical skills, badge earning, and a space where every child is supported.

Christmas arrives in Grays!

17 November 2025
Grays High Street Christmas Tree lights will be officially switched on by the Mayor of Thurrock Council at a special event in Grays High Street on Thursday 27 November.
Cllr Sue Shinnick, Mayor of Thurrock, said: “Christmas is just around the corner and it is fantastic to bring festive cheer back to Grays by switching on the Christmas Tree lights.
“I would especially like to thank DP World London Gateway who have supplied the tree again this year, and Impulse Leisure who are sponsoring our fantastic launch event.

Council confirms arrangements for residents as burst pipe at Brisbane House requires evacuation

13 November 2025
Thurrock Council has confirmed today (13 November) that it continues to support residents of Brisbane House while a burst water pipe’s after-effects are dealt with. The council is assessing the damage following the flood late yesterday led to flooding throughout the block, meaning that residents are now either in temporary accommodation provided by the council or staying with friends or family.

Inconsiderate neighbour prosecuted after her waste filled garden puts neighbours at risk

12 November 2025
A woman has been forced to pay out more than £1,800 after a skip full of food and other waste caused public health issues for her neighbours by attracting pests and vermin.
Samantha Doyle, of Bata Avenue, East Tilbury, was fined £440 by Basildon Magistrates on Wednesday 5 November. She was also ordered to pay £1,200 costs and a £176 victim surcharge.
Thurrock Council’s Environmental Protection Team took action after receiving complaints from neighbours. The council was forced to take legal action after Ms Doyle refused to listen to warnings and orders to clear the rubbish.

Help Thurrock's vulnerable children have a Christmas to remember

6 November 2025
Residents of Thurrock can help to make sure that some of Thurrock's most vulnerable children wake up to a gift on Christmas day through the joint Give a Gift campaign with Thurrock Council and Impulse Leisure. 
Impulse Leisure is accepting donations of toys and gifts at any of their leisure centre sites, which will go to vulnerable children in Thurrock and those at Little Havens Children's Hospice. 
As an incentive, residents can save £50 on a new gym membership at the sites, when they donate two or more toys. 

Support available for private foster carers

5 November 2025
Thurrock Council is raising awareness of private fostering arrangements and sharing why it is important to let us know if you are in one.
Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (or under 18 if they are disabled) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a ‘close relative’ for 28 days or more.
Examples of private foster carers could include a family friend, a great aunt or great-grandparent, family friends of the child or a more distant relative.

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Media enquiries

Journalists and media professionals can make enquiries from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, 01375 652 017 or at communicationsteam@thurrock.gov.uk.

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