A Cultural Engine Research Group talk, we will present an initial paper blending interdisciplinary emotion research (from mental health, social psychology and affect theory) and ‘on the ground’ non-academic expertise of delivering local heritage projects in Essex. The ambition will be to influence and impact local policy around levelling-up and pride in place policy. Giles Tofield (Cultural Engine), Tony Sampson (University of Essex), Andrew Branch (University of East London), Ian Tucker (University of East London).