Paragon Training Facility Achievement through Active Essex
Building Community Impact Through Purpose and Partnership
Since Paragon MMA transitioned into a Community Interest Company (CIC), the organisation faced early challenges in understanding how to operate effectively within this new structure. With limited prior knowledge around governance, planning and sustainable growth, Paragon lacked confidence and clarity about how to progress and maximise its potential for community impact.
After connecting with Paragon MMA in November 2025, Active Essex have become a key development partner, providing structured support, guidance and opportunities to strengthen their organisation and community offer. This partnership has helped Paragon gain clarity around their purpose, improve organisational processes and deepen their role within the local physical activity system.
Since first meeting Paragon MMA, Active Essex has provided consistent, tailored support. From 1-to-1 guidance and mentoring to support the team to access relevant training courses and workshops, the Basildon hub team have worked hard to understand the needs and provision for Paragon.
Active Essex’s involvement has been central in empowering Paragon to refine their approach and deliver activity that is community‑led, accessible and aligned with wider local priorities. Networking opportunities have helped activate their local ecosystem and provided them with practical advice and problem-solving support.
As a result of this successful relationship Paragon MMA have been able to:
- Strengthen its CIC governance and structure
- Gain confidence in decision‑making and long‑term planning
- Align its offer more closely to community needs
- Built strong local partnerships
- Position itself to grow sustainably and deliver meaningful community outcomes.
Key learnings
It's important to take time to reflect and understand the learnings from work undertaken, to focus on ways to improve in the future
Governance & Structure
Becoming a CIC highlighted the need for clear systems and accountability.
Sustainability & Direction
Early uncertainty reinforced the importance of long‑term planning and clear purpose.
Confidence Through Support
Support boosted confidence and decision‑making.
Community-Focused Delivery
Improved understanding strengthened community‑led, accessible delivery.
Ripple effects resulting from Active Essex support
- Secured involvement in the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme
- Delivered a Winter HAF initiative in partnership with Active Essex Foundation
- Awaiting outcome of a Transition Age Application with strong expectations of securing development funding
- Became a community sports partner at Billericay School alongside Active Essex
- Rapid growth of new local partnerships and programme alignment
- Prepared plans to expand delivery from Billericay into Basildon
