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Advocating Empowerment.
Supporting Independence.

We are SUMMIT

Since 1976, we have stood alongside people from across Essex as they’ve faced life’s toughest challenges, delivering mental health and advocacy services that respect choice, restore dignity, and promote independence.

Our mission is to help those who need it most find their voice, uphold their rights, and shape their own path. We foster empowerment over dependency and nurture self-belief, self-resilience, and self-worth. By working in partnership with the people we support, we make sure no one is left behind on their journey.

We support people living with long-term conditions to live their lives, the way they want to.
We empower people to become the best self-advocate they can be.
Today and in the future.
We are listening.
Everyone has a voice and every voice matters.
We won't take the lead, but we will be right by your side.

How can we help?

We know reaching out can be difficult. 
We’ll meet you with honesty, respect, and understanding.

All our services are free to access and open to anyone over the age of 18.

At risk of homelessness or living in unsuitable housing?

If you are an adult living in Colchester or Tendring, our free Health and Inclusion Advocacy service can help you access the housing, health, and social care services you are entitled to.

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Are you currently seeking, waiting for, or have recently received an autism diagnosis?

If you are a neurodivergent adult without a learning disability living in Essex and facing barriers at work or in education, or need support accessing services, our Autism Navigation service is here to work with you at every stage of the diagnostic pathway.

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Struggling with stress, anxiety, sleep issues, or high blood pressure?

Our Modern Mindfulness course is designed to fit into today's busy lifestyles and offers practical, body and breath based techniques you can use every day to better manage life’s challenges and support your overall wellbeing.

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Neurodivergent and looking to connect with others?

Our LikeMinds Essex groups bring like-minded adults together online and in person to share interests and experiences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills.

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Have a learning disability or support someone who does?

Ability B4 Disability is a weekly drop-in where people can make friends, take part in activities, learn about their health and wellbeing, share their views, help shape local services, and grow in confidence to speak up for themselves.

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Feeling isolated or looking to be part of a community?

We offer a range of free peer groups across Essex that bring people together, reduce loneliness, and support confidence, wellbeing, and self-expression.

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“I’ve just had my first decent meal in five days and finally have a bed to lie in. Thank you doesn’t feel like enough, I’m lost for words.”

Health & Inclusion Advocacy Feedback

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“Thank you for listening and helping me. I wouldn't have been able to fill these forms in without your support.”

Autism Navigation Service Feedback

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“You've opened up a world of opportunities and given me the encouragement to enjoy life again. Thanks for allowing me to be myself.”

Peer Support Service Feedback

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“You have been there for me at my lowest and supported me throughout my struggles. I am so grateful.”

Autism Navigation Service Feedback

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Latest News

Coastal Lives Foundation

Launched in 2025, the Coastal Lives Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with long-term health conditions in coastal communities.


By working closely with local charities and organisations, the Foundation will generate and support vital funding for grassroots initiatives that make a meaningful and lasting difference.


Improving lives, for a lifetime.

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Upcoming Groups

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Get In Touch

What can we help you with?
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