ESSEX'S population is growing, but a lack of basic skills is threatening the county's future prosperity, according to a report published by Essex Community Foundation.

The study, Community and Social Needs Survey of Essex, produced by the University of Essex and commissioned by Essex Community Foundation, says nearly a third of Essex adults have no formal qualifications and over a fifth lack basic skills such as numeracy and literacy.

By focusing on a wide range of themes including health, housing, education, transport, crime, the economy and skills, the 200-page report presents key issues relating to the varying concerns of people in Essex, Southend and Thurrock.

By commissioning the research, Essex Community Foundation is drawing attention to the social issues facing Essex and is seeking to increase the amount of funding available to support the work of Essex-based voluntary and community groups.

The main findings include:

  • 29 per cent of adults have no formal qualifications; 22 per cent lack basic skills
  • The highest percentage of unemployed are aged between 20 and 24
  • The fastest growth in population is among the 80-plus age group, who are most likely to need more health and social care
  • 40 per cent of all parishes in Essex are without a post office; 67 per cent without a general store; 63 per cent are without a pub
  • Many charities, voluntary organisations, and community groups are now providing a service in order to fill the gaps' in healthcare service provision.
  • There is a low crime rate, but anti-social behaviour is a key concern for Essex Police
  • Boredom and a shortage of alternative entertainment options, particularly in rural areas of the county, are key factors contributing to much of the anti-social behaviour, drinking, damage to property and car crime carried out by young people.

Essex Community Foundation chief executive Laura Warren said: "This report shows the extent to which voluntary and community organisations are playing a critical role in virtually all areas of social life, but they are dangerously under-resourced to fill the gaps in services no longer provided by statutory agencies."

The report is available, £15 per copy, from Essex Community Foundation, 52A Moulsham Street, Chelmsford CM0 8PP general@essexcf.org.uk. The executive summary can be found at www.essexcf.org.uk.