Working together to make a difference across Sussex
This week, we welcomed around 45 colleagues and guests from across housing, health, social care, local government and the voluntary sector to our Strategy Showcase & Networking Event at Isetta Square in Brighton. The event was an opportunity to showcase some of Southdown’s recent housing work, but it was about much more than presentations. It […]
Board changes at Southdown
We’re pleased to share some changes to Southdown’s Board as we continue to deliver our five-year Business Strategy and build on our ambition to make a positive difference for more people across Sussex. At our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 16 September, we welcomed Jonathan Senker as our new Chair, alongside three new Board members. […]
Thank you, Pauline
As Pauline Ford steps down from her role as Chair of the Board, we take a moment to recognise and celebrate her outstanding contribution to our organisation. Through her leadership, guidance and commitment, Pauline has helped shape our direction and supported our growth during a significant period in our journey. In the article below, our […]
Our Impact 2025–26: helping people feel safe, be well and live the life they choose
Southdown has launched its Impact Report 2025–26, sharing the difference our housing, mental health and employment support and Learning Disability support has made in people’s lives across Sussex. The report brings together stories from the people we support alongside highlights from across our work – from safe housing and mental health support to building confidence, […]
Southdown Summer Fiesta celebrates the power of social connection
Hundreds of people came together last week as Southdown’s annual Summer Fiesta was held at Plumpton Racecourse, celebrating the importance of community, friendship, and social connection. The event brought together people supported by Southdown’s learning disability services, alongside families, staff, Board members, commissioners, and volunteers. The afternoon was filled with music, entertainment, and activities. It […]
Vagrancy Act repeal marks a more compassionate approach to homelessness
The repeal of the Vagrancy Act is an important step towards recognising that people experiencing homelessness need understanding and support, not punishment. For more than 200 years, the Act made rough sleeping and begging a criminal offence. It hadn’t been used much in recent years, but its repeal reflects a wider shift in how society […]
Southdown appoints new Chair of the Board to lead next phase of five-year strategy
Southdown has appointed Jonathan Senker as the new Chair of its Board, following a competitive recruitment process. Jonathan joined Southdown’s Board in 2025 and will formally take up the position at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting in September 2026. He will succeed Pauline Ford, who is stepping down after seven years of dedicated service on […]
Southdown launches redesigned UOK Wellbeing Service across Brighton & Hove and East Sussex
Southdown has launched their redesigned community mental health and wellbeing service across Brighton & Hove and East Sussex, making it easier for people to access support when they need it. Launched on 13 July, The UOK Wellbeing Service brings together local mental health and wellbeing support into a clearer, more joined-up service. Delivered by Southdown […]
Southdown recognised through Great Care Employer campaign
Southdown has been recognised through West Sussex County Council’s Great Care Employer campaign, which celebrates adult social care providers that put staff first. The scheme supports care organisations to review and strengthen their employment practices, with a focus on creating positive workplaces where colleagues feel supported, valued and able to develop. As part of the […]
Refugee Radio joins UOK partnership to deliver mental health support for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers
Southdown is pleased to welcome Refugee Radio as a new UOK partner, following a recent expression of interest process for mental health support for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in Brighton & Hove. UOK is a partnership of voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations working together to improve access to mental health and wellbeing support […]
Learning Disability Week 2026: Celebrating involvement and co-production
This Learning Disability Week we are celebrating the people we support and the impact they make in their communities through their involvement and co-production. Involvement is when someone has a voice in the decisions and services that affect them. Co-production means listening to clients and tenants, valuing their insight, and working alongside them to shape […]
People, Purpose, and Partnership: 25 Years at Southdown
Neil Blanchard reflects on 25 years at Southdown.