News and events

The West Sussex Joint Climate Change Board (WSJCCB), made up of representatives from county (WSCC), district, and borough councils, and other key stakeholders, is developing shared action plans for tackling climate change across the county.

A consultation is taking place to ensure the final plans consider public views, address the right priorities locally, and show whether there is support for local councils to lead on action to reduce emissions and prepare for the impacts of climate change.

The survey/consultation The consultation consists of 27 questions and is aimed at anyone over 13 years of age that lives or works in West Sussex. People will be asked to read a summary document that covers the overall approach to the plans and, if possible, two more detailed action plans focused on mitigation and adaptation. The consultation will start on Wednesday 5 August 2026 and run for approximately 8 weeks; closing on 27 September 2026 at 11.55pm.

https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/climatesurvey

West Sussex County Council social care staff have been shortlisted for prestigious sector awards that recognise their hard work, dedication and innovation that has helped transform people’s lives.

Social Worker of the Year Awards

Four members of WSCC staff and one multidisciplinary team (MDT) from the council’s adults’ and children’s services teams have been named category finalists at the Social Worker of the Year Awards.

• Quality, Practice and Service Development Team - Team of the Year, Adult Services (including MDTs)
• Rangeley Shallis-Barnes - Children’s Social Worker of the Year
• Shona McLaughlin - Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year
• Karen Golding - Mental Health Social Worker
• Jennifer Benbow - Practice Leadership and Management – Adult Services

The council’s adults’ services Quality, Practice and Service Development Team has been shortlisted for Team of the Year. This is in recognition of its outstanding impact on improving professional practice and partnership working which has resulted in consistently high-quality support for individuals, families, and communities.

In the Children’s Social Worker of the Year category, judges were impressed by Rangeley Shallis-Barnes’ unwavering commitment to going above and beyond for families and young people with additional needs and neurodivergence, ensuring their voices were heard, understood and championed at every stage.

Shona McLaughlin, who completed her social worker apprenticeship last summer, has been shortlisted for Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year, for consistently delivering compassionate, child-centred practice that has led to significant improvements in the lives of children, young people and families across West Sussex.

Karen Golding has been named a finalist in the Mental Health Social Worker category for her outstanding contribution to social work over more than 30 years. During this time, her leadership, professional expertise and dedication to continuous improvement have had a lasting and positive impact on the lives of people across West Sussex.

Jennifer Benbow is shortlisted for Practice Leadership and Management – Adult Services in recognition of her exceptional values-driven leadership which has made a lasting impact on both her workforce and the communities they serve, delivering outstanding outcomes for people with complex needs.

The Social Worker of the Year Awards are widely regarded as one of the most prestigious honours in the social care sector.

The winners will be announced at the Social Worker of the Year Awards ceremony in October.

National Back Exchange Excellence Awards

The Moving and Handling Team, which works with adults and children, has been named a finalist in the Social Care Team of the Year category at the National Back Exchange (NBE) Excellence Awards 2026.

The NBE Excellence Awards celebrate the outstanding work, safety innovations and dedication of practitioner, suppliers, and care teams who are trained to safely lift, transfer, reposition, or assist individuals with limited mobility.

The county council’s Adults and Children’s Moving and Handling Team has been recognised for its outstanding contribution to adult social care, education and safeguarding across West Sussex. Through innovative initiatives such as the Moving and Handling Champions model and Train-the-Trainer programme, they have improved outcomes for people, empowered colleagues and strengthened organisational resilience.

This national recognition is a testament to the team's dedication, expertise and impact.

The winners will be announced on 14 September.

Councillor Sam Raby, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “Being shortlisted for these prestigious awards is a wonderful achievement and reflects the life-changing difference our social workers make every day.

“Whether supporting children and families through difficult circumstances or helping people find stability and hope, they demonstrate professionalism, empathy and a steadfast commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. This recognition is thoroughly deserved, and I am delighted to see their work celebrated.”

Councillor Richard Bates, Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, said: “I’m really proud to see our colleagues and teams shortlisted across several categories. These nominations highlight the innovation, leadership and expertise that underpin social care in West Sussex, as well as the positive impact our staff have on the people they support.

“It is fantastic to see their achievements acknowledged at a national level, and I wish them every success at the awards ceremony.”

For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email [email protected]. For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415.

Young people leaving care were recognised for their resilience, achievements and personal growth at the West Sussex House Project summer celebration held in Crawley last week.

The event brought together young people, staff, supporters and partner organisations to celebrate the progress made by participants as they navigate the journey from care to independent living.

Councillor Sam Raby, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: "This was a wonderful opportunity to recognise the achievements of our young people and celebrate the progress they have made over the last year. We are incredibly proud of everything they have accomplished.”

Now supporting its seventh cohort since launching in 2023, the West Sussex House Project helps care-experienced young people aged 16 to 25 develop the skills, confidence and support networks needed to live independently. The initiative, funded by West Sussex County Council, is one of 20 local projects across the country that form part of the National House Project programme.

Held at Langley Green Youth Centre, the celebration welcomed young people from across several cohorts, providing an opportunity to reconnect, share experiences and celebrate successes. Attendees enjoyed games, refreshments and freshly made crepes from a local vendor, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the day was the presentation of awards and certificates recognising the hard work and achievements of participants. Several young people graduated from the programme and received Graduation Certificates, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards independence. Others were presented with AQA Awards and Individual Achievement Certificates in recognition of personal development, learning and other accomplishments achieved throughout the year.

Kate, who was a member of the West Sussex House Project’s first cohort, said: “The House Project gave me hope. I’ve now been in my flat for almost three years, and I love it because it’s my own home. I have a full-time job and work to help children in foster care.”

Councillor Raby added: "I would like to thank the team at the West Sussex House Project for their ongoing hard work and dedication to supporting these young people, many of whom have faced significant challenges throughout their lives, as they move towards independent living."

For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email [email protected]. For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415.

A service helping thousands of people recover following illness, injury or surgery is proving central to West Sussex County Council’s work to develop sustainable adult social care services.

Over the past year, the service, which is commissioned by the council and managed by Essex Cares Limited (ECL), has provided more than 2,600 people with short-term support to rebuild their confidence and manage everyday life safely at home. Of those completing the programme, 76% required no further ongoing care needs, while 97% reported a positive experience.

Councillor Richard Bates, the council’s Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, said:

“Helping people remain independent in their own homes is an essential part of supporting healthier, more fulfilling lives. It’s encouraging to see so many of our residents benefiting from personalised support following illness, injury or surgery.”

Referrals increased by 17% compared with the previous year, with those from community pathways almost trebling. Around 126,000 hours of support were delivered during the year.

By helping people do more for themselves and reducing the need for longer-term care, reablement improves individual outcomes while helping the council manage growing demand.

ECL’s reablement specialists deliver reablement activity to people using the service, working alongside West Sussex County Council’s Occupational Therapy Team, which provides occupational therapy support where needed.

Real examples of reablement support

Kathy was referred following a hospital admission after several falls. Within a week, she was safely using the stairs, showering and dressing independently, and completed the programme without needing ongoing care.

Sarah received support to manage the impact of bipolar disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder on her daily routines. The programme helped her rebuild her confidence and establish routines for medication, meals and personal care, helping her feel more independent and in control.

Cllr Bates added:

“The fantastic work of our reablement service reflects our commitment to putting people at the heart of social care. By focusing on confidence, practical skills and long-term independence, reablement improves outcomes for people and their families while helping us build sustainable adult social care services across the county.”

Peter Fairley, ECL Managing Director, said:

“Kathy and Sarah’s stories demonstrate how the right support, at the right time, can make a lasting difference. Whether helping someone recover physically after a hospital stay or supporting a person to rebuild confidence and routine following mental health challenges, reablement empowers people to regain their independence in their own homes.

“Over the past year, we have supported more than 2,600 people through the service, with 76% completing reablement with no ongoing care needs and have ambitions to support considerably more people in year two. We share the council’s vision to provide access to therapy-led community reablement to local people and look forward to what the next five years of the contract bring."

If you could benefit from adult social care support, or know someone who could, contact Adults’ CarePoint on 01243 642121 or visit West Sussex Connect to Support.

For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email [email protected]. For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415.

Thousands of young people across West Sussex are receiving their GCSE and vocational qualification results today.

Councillor Sam Raby, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “Congratulations to everyone receiving their results today. You should be proud of the hard work, determination and progress that have brought you to this important milestone.

“I would also like to thank schools, teachers, parents and carers across West Sussex for the vital role they have played in supporting students throughout their studies.

“Whatever results you receive, they are just one part of your journey and there are many different routes available. Whether you are planning to move on to sixth form, college, an apprenticeship, training or employment, support is available to help you explore your options and choose the path that is right for you.”

A breakdown of grades by region can be found on the Ofqual website.

Careers advice and support

Students who have questions about their results or what to do next should speak to their school, which can provide advice about sixth-form places, college courses and other available options.

The West Sussex County Council Careers Team can also provide free information, advice and guidance to eligible young people aged 16 to 24 who live in West Sussex and are not in education, employment or training.

The team can help young people explore opportunities including further education, apprenticeships, employment, training and volunteering.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 033 022 22700.

You can also visit the careers guidance webpage for further advice. Supporting your wellbeing

Whether you have received GCSE results today or A-level and vocational results last week, it is normal to experience a range of emotions.

Young people who are feeling stressed, anxious or low can find information, advice and emotional wellbeing support on the e-wellbeing website.

For further information please contact the news desk on 0330 222 8090 or email [email protected]. For urgent out-of-hours enquiries please call 07767 098415.

Mid Sussex District Council and West Sussex County Council have renewed their Mid Sussex Growth Deal for a further five years, aimed at driving economic growth, attracting investment, supporting local jobs and encouraging innovation across the district from 2025 to 2030. 

This new Deal builds on the success of the previous Growth Deal, which helped secure more than £67 million in public sector funding and approximately £330 million of private sector funding for major projects. Together with partners, the 2018 – 2023 Growth Deal delivered significant improvements across the district including upgrades to the A2300 and local wastewater treatment works, the development of the Green Circle and wider pedestrian and cycling network, a new library for Burgess Hill Library, and the creation of The Arc Centre for Outdoor Sport. 

The new Growth Deal for 2025 – 2030 focuses on attracting more investment to deliver projects across the district to improve residents' quality of life, support sustainable growth, and strengthen the local economy to build vibrant, resilient communities. 

The Deal prioritises: 

• The Martlets Shopping Centre in Burgess Hill  
• New infrastructure and community facilities at Brookleigh  
• Delivery of a Science and Technology Park  
• Delivery of the East Grinstead Town Centre Improvement Plan  
• Sustainable transport and connectivity across the district 

The Growth Deal supports both Councils shared commitment to tackle climate change by promoting sustainable economic growth, boosting green innovation and supporting the transition to net-zero. With significant development planned across the district, the Deal aims to integrate transport networks, improve access to walking and cycling routes, and support cleaner travel by promoting electric vehicle charging infrastructure. 

Leader of Mid Sussex District Council Cllr Robert Eggleston said: 

"The renewed Growth Deal is about investing in the future of Mid Sussex and ensuring our communities continue to thrive. By working closely with West Sussex County Council and our partners, we can support local businesses, improve connectivity, and deliver the infrastructure and community facilities needed to create vibrant places that benefit residents now and in the future.” 

Cllr Yvonne Gravely, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at West Sussex County Council, said:  

"Building on the success of the previous Growth Deal, this renewed partnership will help secure investment, deliver vital infrastructure and support businesses to grow and innovate. It is a clear commitment to creating opportunities, supporting skills development and generating lasting benefits for residents and communities across Mid Sussex. Projects such as the Science and Technology Park in Burgess Hill have the potential to create thousands of new jobs while helping local people develop valuable science and technology skills." 

The Growth Deal will guide joint working between the councils, helping to unlock opportunities for sustainable growth while supporting long-term benefits for residents and businesses across Mid Sussex. 

ENDS 

Local producers and businesses from Mid Sussex are celebrated in the newly launched Sussex Honey Guide, which showcases honey, bee-related products, and unique visitor experiences from across the county. 

Commissioned by Mid Sussex District Council and Horsham District Council, the illustrated guide celebrates local producers and encourages residents and visitors to discover Sussex's vibrant honey industry.  

The guide features a range of Sussex honey and bee-product producers, visitor experiences and activities, including 'meet the bees' days and beekeeping visits. A map highlights farm shops, cafés and attractions where people can find locally produced honey, mead, cosmetics and other bee-related products, and a Producers Directory helps residents and visitors discover the wide range of local businesses, from Michelin-starred restaurants and beekeepers to honey producers and bee-related experiences. 

The Sussex Honey Guide features a variety of businesses from Mid Sussex, including: 

Hiver Honey (Albourne Estate) 

• Borde Hill  
• Gravetye Manor 
• Wakehurst  
• Happy Honey Home (Nymans) 
• Standen House  
• Plaw Hatch Farm Shop 
• Market Place Shopping Centre  
• The Sussex Bee 
• The Sussex Beekeeper 

 To educate and inspire the next generation, the guide features a complementary family activity pack, full of fun facts, jokes, colouring pages, puzzles and activities to help children learn more about bees, honey, and the important role pollinators play in our environment. 

 Cllr Ian Gibson, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Economy and Housing said: “This guide is a welcome addition that highlights just some of the unique visitor experiences and local businesses we have in Mid Sussex. 

 We’re proud to see so many of our fantastic producers featured in the Sussex Honey Guide. This guide is all about celebrating the businesses that help make our district such a great place to live, work and visit.” 

Designed by local creatives Whistlestop Arts, the Sussex Honey Guide and accompanying family activity pack can be downloaded for free on the Whistlestop Arts website: https://www.whistlestoparts.org/sussexhoney   

Printed guides and activity packs will also be available to pick up at Mid Sussex District Council, Oaklands Rd, Haywards Heath RH16 1SS and at the Council’s Play Day events throughout the summer. 

ENDS 

Please be aware that Ardingly Road, Hanlye Lane, and surrounding local roads may experience increased traffic and temporary disruption due to events taking place at Borde Hill.

🗓 Dates: 13 - 16 August 🕘 Times: 9:00pm - 3:00am

We appreciate your patience and understanding while these events are underway. Please allow extra time for journeys if travelling in the area.

events coming soon..

To stay updated on the latest news and events in Cuckfield, you can read our monthly newsletter at: Cuckfield Parish Council August Newsletter