The event took place on Wednesday, November 5, and was organised in partnership with training provider WorkReady.
Aimed at securing the future of the sector, the conference focused on developing the workforce enabling key organisations to collaborate to address current and future challenges.
Councillor Kaz Rizvi, who is responsible for community health and wellbeing at Epping Forest District Council and a practising GP, said: “I have first-hand experience of the benefits of employing local people – they bring a local connection and pride in their work that really benefits our residents. We recognise that local jobs for local people results in local success stories.”
Senior leaders from the NHS, local government, education, and related sectors attended the event.
Speakers included Tom Abell, CEO of Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board; Dr Andrew Kelso, chief medical officer at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust; and Nicole Rich, director of West Essex community physical and mental health services at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.
Cllr Holly Whitbread, who is responsible for finance and economic development at Epping Forest District Council, and Cllr John Spence, Essex County Council cabinet member for children’s services, adult social care, public health, and integration.
The conference forms part of Epping Forest District Council’s broader health and wellbeing strategy, which aims to improve both health and economic outcomes through employment in the care sector.
Attendees discussed how to connect residents with career opportunities in health and care, supporting both community wellbeing and economic growth.
Cllr Whitbread said: “This was a wonderful event that brought together local businesses and key organisations to explore how we can work together to meet the future workforce needs of the health and care sector.
“By collaborating in this way, we can create good local jobs, reduce inequality, and help residents develop the skills to thrive in rewarding careers.”
Residents are invited to attend the West Essex Health and Care Careers Fair, which will be held on January 29 at the Civic Offices in Epping.
