Rochford locality
Rochford is a diverse district of 86,980 residents, stretching from the River Crouch in the north to the River Thames in the south. With a significantly higher proportion of residents aged 65+ than the national average, the district has a distinct demographic profile that can shape local priorities. This is in particular relation to tackling social isolation, supporting mobility and meeting growing healthcare needs.
At the same time, Rochford has the second lowest proportion of children under 16 in Greater Essex, yet the highest proportion of females, offering further insight into audiences who may face unique barriers to engaging with physical activity.
Measuring impact in Rochford to improve outcomes for residents
Over half over residents 65+ are leading an active lifestyle.
Shaping the Castle Point and Rochford Health and Wellbeing strategy and now implementing delivery, Rochford partners are driving system wide preventative health improvements for residents to access physical activity opportunities.
36.7% of Rochford adults are currently inactive.
The Rochford Community fund is helping to support mental health programmes, inclusive sporting opportunities and placing community voice at the heart of their decision making. Physical activity is being embedded as a health driver.
3rd lowest total green infrastructure district in the county.
Active Essex have supported the district to review their outdoor spaces, making sure they are fit for purpose, driven by youth voice and are inclusive, accessible well-designed places that help encourage physical activity and movement.
Making movement a priority in Rochford
Active Essex is connected across the Rochford system, working through a broad range of strategic and community partnerships to champion physical activity and strengthen local outcomes. Our role spans the South East Essex Alliance Healthy Neighbourhoods Group, as well as the Castle Point & Rochford Health and Wellbeing Board and its subgroups, including physical health (Chair), ageing well, community resilience and mental health.
The team are actively involved in the Find Your Active Rochford Network Task and Finish Group, the Rochford & Rayleigh Integrated Neighbourhood Team Leadership Group, and the Rochford & Castle Point Youth Worker Forum. Active Essex also chairs the Rochford Playing Pitch Strategy Group and the South East Essex Children’s Partnership Board, helping to ensure movement is prioritised across all ages.
Rochford is united by ambition and driven by movement and the following case studies show how the district is contributing to the Fit for the Future Strategy.
