Community Connection

There has been lots of positive community activity taking place recently across both Bexhill and Battle.

Recently, I attended the Trussell Rolling Roadshow held at The Kia Oval in London, alongside foodbanks and community organisations from across the network. A key focus of the day was Dignity in Action — recognising how important it is to keep the dignity, respect, and humanity of the people we support at the centre of everything we do.

The event highlighted how even the smallest actions can make a big difference: a warm welcome, listening without judgement, offering choice where possible, and ensuring people feel valued rather than defined by their circumstances. For many people accessing support, these moments matter just as much as the practical help itself. It was a valuable reminder that community support is not only about meeting immediate needs, but also about creating spaces where people feel heard, respected, and treated with kindness.

Meanwhile, Bexhill Better Together has continued working hard to improve awareness and accessibility of SEND support locally. The group recently spoke with the previous Lead Member for Education, Inclusion and SEND for East Sussex to raise awareness of the need for more face-to-face support in the area. We are pleased that this will now be passed on to the Assistant Director of Education at East Sussex, with hopes of bringing more services and opportunities into Bexhill. The group is also planning a Parents’ Information Day, where local organisations can come together to offer advice, information, and support directly to parents and families. We are currently researching suitable venues and dates. Watch this space for further information.

Over in Battle, Battle for Change recently organised a local half-term family event at the recreation ground in Coronation Gardens 'Free Scoops & Friendly Faces'.  Residents were invited to share their thoughts on how the local space is used and “what would make the difference” in their area — all in exchange for a free ice cream kindly supplied by Alfie’s Awesome Ice Creams. It was a busy and positive day, with lots of valuable conversations taking place. The feedback gathered will now help guide discussions with Battle Town Council, Rother District Council, and Southern Housing as plans develop for improving the local area.

I’ve also recently visited Bexhill 6th Form College to speak with Health & Social Care students about the importance and diversity of our Foodbank work. The students were incredibly attentive and engaged, and it has been especially heartwarming that the hairdressing and barbering students have since offered to provide free haircuts for our clients. It’s wonderful to see such kindness and community spirit from the next generation.

Across all of this work, the common thread is the importance of listening to people, strengthening community connections, and ensuring individuals feel valued and included. Small acts of kindness and opportunities to work together really can make a lasting difference.