We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news — Thurrock Voices, our much-loved community choir, has been shortlisted for the Best Age-Friendly Outreach Award at this year’s Fantastic for Families Awards 2025, run by the Family Arts Campaign.

This national recognition celebrates creative projects that make a real difference to the lives of older people and adults across the UK — improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and creating opportunities for joy, connection and confidence.

For us at Arts Outburst, this nomination is a huge honour. Thurrock Voices isn’t just a choir. It’s a creative community where people come together, support one another and rediscover the joy of singing — regardless of age, background or experience.

Bringing People Together Through Song

Thurrock Voices began with a simple idea: to bring people together through the power of singing. Over the years, it’s grown into something much more profound — a place of belonging, laughter, and shared creativity.

Every Thursday at our studios in the Thameside Complex, voices of all kinds come together to sing, chat, and connect. There are no auditions and no pressure — just an open invitation to join in, learn something new, and feel good.

Many members tell us the choir has transformed their lives. One singer shared:

“I was not in a good place in my life before I got involved with Thurrock Voices. Singing has lifted me from depression and grief.”

Another told us:

“My musical life has been resurrected after the pandemic.”

These are the stories that remind us why community arts matter.

A Choir with Heart

As our Artistic Director Daryl Branch puts it:

“Thurrock Voices has shown us time and again how something as simple as singing together can change lives. It brings joy, confidence and a real sense of belonging to people who might otherwise feel disconnected.”

That sense of connection runs through everything we do at Arts Outburst. Whether it’s a festival, a workshop, or a weekly choir session, we believe creativity has the power to transform lives — and Thurrock Voices is one of our most heartfelt examples.

Putting Thurrock on the Map

Being shortlisted for a national award shines a light on the amazing things happening right here in Thurrock. It shows that age-friendly, inclusive arts can have a real impact — not only for those who take part, but for the wider community.

We’re so proud that this project, rooted in our local area, is being recognised on a national stage. It’s a celebration of our members, our volunteers, and everyone who believes in the power of creativity to build community.

Join the Celebration

The Fantastic for Families Awards ceremony takes place online on 20 November 2025, and you can join us by booking a free ticket here.

We’d love our community to get behind Thurrock Voices — share the news, spread the word, and help us continue to grow. If you or someone you know would like to join the choir, you can find out more on our website at www.artsoutburst.co.uk.

Let’s keep building creative communities together — one song at a time.

Thurrock Voices meets every Thursday during term time at the Arts Outburst Studios, Thameside Complex, Grays. New members are always welcome, and your first session is free!