Over the past five years, VAEF has secured more than £2 million from funders outside of the district, enabling us to provide a wide range of services that directly benefit Epping Forest residents.
VAEF’s services cater to a broad spectrum of needs, including the elderly, those with learning disabilities, isolated individuals and residents navigating complex systems like benefits or post-hospital support.
Here are just some of the ways VAEF has made a difference to the lives of Epping Forest residents in 2024:
Ace Activities: Delivered 569 sessions focused on building life skills for those with learning disabilities, supported by 1,730 volunteer hours.
Benefits Guidance: Assisted 606 individuals with applications for critical benefits, easing financial burdens.
Community Clubs: Supported 65-75 elderly clients with social activities, trips and outings to reduce loneliness.
Digital Support: Provided 289 interventions, including home visits and help at local surgeries, empowering 253 people to engage with technology.
Men’s Shed: Hosted 403 visitors, creating a supportive space to combat loneliness and isolation.
Support for Ukraine Refugees: Delivered 71 interventions for 20 refugees, providing practical and emotional support.
Family and Child Support: Helped 127 low-income families with shopping and energy payments and supported 127 children through the Christmas Giving Gift campaign.
VAEF maintains a visible presence at the Epping Forest Foodbank Hubs. These hubs, alongside services like the Community Handyman, Social Space Hubs and direct support to food banks, demonstrate VAEF’s commitment to addressing both immediate and long-term community challenges.
A portion of its work is supported by funding from Epping Forest District Council (EFDC), which plays an essential role in helping VAEF to attract additional national and regional grants.
VAEF’s wide range of services is here to support individuals and families across Epping Forest. Whether it’s a neighbour who could benefit from companionship at a community club, a relative needing help with digital tasks or someone struggling to navigate the benefits system, the charity is there to help.
VAEF’s ability to continue its work relies on the ongoing support of grants, donations and community contributions. Funding plays a critical role in unlocking further resources, and the collective effort of our partners, supporters and volunteers enables us to maintain and expand our services.
- For more information on how to support VAEF or to get involved, visit: vaef.org.uk or contact Jacqui Foile, chief officer of VAEF, at admin@vaef.org.uk
