Herts Together unites communities in year of celebration

Hertfordshire has officially launched Herts Together – a new countywide initiative celebrating the compassion, unity and community spirit that make the county stronger.

The programme will run throughout 2026, featuring events, stories and activities that highlight how much can be achieved when people join together in a shared purpose.

The launch event took place on Tuesday 10 February at St Albans Cathedral, bringing together a wide range of organisations and community groups. Representatives from Herts police, fire and ambulance services, councils, faith groups, local charities, sport and youth organisations and many others attended to show their support.

Guests heard keynote speeches from The Very Reverend Jo Kelly‑Moore, Dean of St Albans Cathedral; Robert Voss CBE CStJ, Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire; and Akhtar Zaman DL, Chair of the St Albans Islamic Centre.

The evening also included moving performances by the Purple All Stars – a Hertfordshire-based performing arts group of young adults with learning disabilities who use creative expression to promote inclusion and health awareness.

At the heart of the campaign is a simple and powerful message: One County, Many Voices, Shared Future – reflecting a Hertfordshire where communities of all backgrounds stand side by side.

As one of the country’s most diverse counties, Hertfordshire is enriched by cultures and traditions from around the world. Herts Together will celebrate this through a year of events built around seven themes: Sport and Wellbeing; Music and Arts; Food and Culinary Heritage; Business and Commerce; Family, Young People and Education; Faith, Culture and Worship; Nature and Environment. These will include festivals, cultural celebrations, youth projects, business forums and local partnerships that strengthen understanding and community pride.

The initiative also aims to empower communities, promote local creativity, improve access to events, and capture the stories that reflect Hertfordshire’s evolving community spirit.

Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss CBE CStJ said: ‘The launch of Herts Together in St Albans Cathedral was a resounding success thanks to the hard work of a small and dedicated team who have supported my idea from the start.

‘In the current uncertain and nervous times it has never been more important to bring the people of Hertfordshire together and show that we are indeed a united county.

‘So by showcasing the great many events and activities taking place around the county during the year it will enable everyone to think outside their own box and see what others in the community are doing, how they work and play, pray and learn and hopefully increase our appreciation of this great diverse county.’

Chief Constable Andy Prophet said: ‘Hertfordshire is at its strongest when we are united. Herts Together is a powerful reminder that the strength of our county lies in the kindness, compassion and solidarity we show one another. By uniting communities, celebrating our diversity and creating shared experiences, we reinforce the message that Hertfordshire is one county with many voices and a shared future.

‘By standing alongside our partners and residents, we can listen, learn and work together to ensure Hertfordshire remains a place where people feel protected, respected and included. This initiative brings people together across all backgrounds, helping to build a safer, stronger and more connected Hertfordshire for everyone.’

Akhtar Zaman DL said: ‘Our diverse county of Hertfordshire is shaped by many cultures and traditions, united by a common commitment to ensuring everyone feels respected, welcome and proud to belong. Herts Together amplifies everything that makes our vibrant county such a special place to call home. As communities come together throughout this year of celebration, inspired by the seven themes at the heart of the initiative, we will strengthen connections, celebrate our differences and build an even stronger sense of belonging. Together, we can shape a future that reflects our shared vision: One County, Many Voices, Shared Future.’

Chair of the Local Resilience Forum and Chief Fire Officer, Alex Woodman said: ‘As Chair of Hertfordshire’s Local Resilience Forum, I’ve seen the powerful impact we can make when organisations come together with a shared purpose.

‘Our greatest strength is built in times of stability – in the trust and collaboration that prepare us to support one another long before an incident occurs.

‘At a time when unity and inclusion matter more than ever, I welcome Herts Together for bringing people together and celebrating both our differences and our shared strengths. I encourage schools, businesses, community groups and faith organisations to join us and help make this year one of unity, inclusion and collective growth.’

To find out more information and how you can get involved, please visit: Hertstogether – Bringing Hertfordshire Communities Together.