Southdown launches redesigned UOK Wellbeing Service across Brighton & Hove and East Sussex

Posted on 13 July 2026

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 as the lead provider of the UOK partnership, and funded by NHS Sussex and Surrey, East Sussex County Council and Brighton & Hove City Council, the service offers welcoming and inclusive support for people experiencing mental health and wellbeing challenges.

The new model follows a redesign of Southdown’s community mental health services, shaped by feedback from staff, clients and partner organisations. The changes are designed to create a more consistent offer across Sussex, while keeping support rooted in people’s local communities.

What you can expect from the UOK Wellbeing Service

Support is designed around what matters to each person. This may include one-to-one sessions, peer support groups, social and community activities, and help to connect with specialist services where needed.

People can access the service in a range of ways. Walk-in Welcome Sessions are available without an appointment, Saturday telephone appointments can be booked online, and new and existing clients can sign up for eight-week peer support programmes through the UOK website.

The peer support programmes offer a chance to build confidence, connect with others, strengthen community links and take positive steps towards improved wellbeing.

The UOK Wellbeing Service is part of the wider UOK partnership, a network of voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations working together to improve mental health and wellbeing in our communities.

Anyone living in Brighton & Hove or East Sussex, and aged 18+, can access support, groups and activities across any UOK Wellbeing Service locations.

Matt Gough, Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Southdown, said:

“The launch of the UOK Wellbeing Service is an important step towards making mental health support easier to access for people across East Sussex and Brighton & Hove. We know people want support that is welcoming, connected to their local community and centred around what matters most to them.”

“The service reflects the NHS neighbourhood health approach, bringing together community organisations and local partners to provide more coordinated, person-centred support closer to home.”

– Matt Gough, COO – Southdown

Matt added, “By working together, we can respond more effectively to people’s needs, helping them access the right support at the right time. This more connected approach will help people get support earlier, build resilience and stay well, while creating a more consistent experience for everyone who uses the service.”

Visit the service page to learn more about the UOK Wellbeing Service, find information about Walk-in Welcome Sessions, book a Saturday telephone appointment, or sign up for a peer support programme.