Sussex Support Service CIC

Who we are

Sussex Support Service CIC is a not-for-profit community interest company based in Uckfield, East Sussex. We are dedicated to supporting older people and their carers through inclusive, compassionate services that enhance wellbeing, reduce isolation, and build meaningful connections.

Our work spans a range of services including tailored respite day care, dementia support, creative wellbeing programmes, and community events. Through our welcoming Victoria Pavilion Support Centre and the vibrant Victoria Pavilion Arts initiative, we deliver high-quality care and inspiring activities that empower individuals to live well and feel valued.

We believe everyone deserves to feel connected, supported, and celebrated—regardless of age or ability.

Our culture and values

At Sussex Support Service CIC, we are:

• People-Centred: We listen first. Our services are designed around the unique needs and stories of the individuals and carers we support.

• Creative & Inclusive: We use the arts and community engagement as tools to foster wellbeing, confidence, and connection for everyone.

• Empowering: Whether through a day of laughter, a moment of calm creativity, or a supportive conversation, we help people feel seen, heard, and supported.

• Collaborative: We thrive through partnerships—with families, volunteers, artists, local organisations, and the wider community.

• Compassionate & Respectful: Our team leads with kindness, professionalism, and dignity in everything we do.

• Resilient & Forward-Thinking: We adapt to meet new challenges with energy, innovation, and purpose—ensuring our work continues to evolve and grow with the community.

We are more than a service—we’re a place of connection, creativity, and care.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

1. Policy Statement

At Sussex Support Service CIC, we are committed to creating a culture that respects and celebrates difference, promotes dignity, and actively combats all forms of discrimination. We value the diversity of our staff, volunteers, service users, and wider community, and strive to ensure everyone feels safe, included, and respected.

We recognise that inequality, exclusion, and discrimination can create barriers to opportunity and participation. We are committed to promoting fairness and ensuring that no one is disadvantaged due to their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

2. Our Commitment

We will:

• Treat everyone with dignity and respect.

• Promote an inclusive environment in all our services, spaces, and activities.

• Challenge discriminatory language, behaviours, and practices wherever they occur.

• Ensure our recruitment, volunteering, and staff development practices are fair, open, and inclusive.

• Take steps to make our services accessible and appropriate for everyone, including people with additional needs or from marginalised groups.

• Listen to and value the voices and experiences of our service users, staff, and community.

• Monitor our practices and take action to reduce inequality and promote equity.

3. Responsibilities

• Board of Directors and Senior Management are responsible for embedding EDI in our organisational strategy and practices.

• All Staff and Volunteers have a duty to uphold this policy, contribute to an inclusive culture, and report any breaches or concerns.

• The Director of Services is responsible for reviewing this policy, ensuring training is provided, and supporting best practice.

4. Implementation & Review

• EDI is integrated into our policies, staff induction, training, and service delivery.

• This policy is reviewed annually, or sooner if legislation or organisational needs require.

5. Reporting Concerns

Any concerns, complaints, or suggestions related to equality, diversity, or inclusion should be reported confidentially to a line manager or the Director of Services. We are committed to investigating all concerns fairly and taking appropriate action.

6. Monitoring & Evaluation

We will monitor the diversity of staff, volunteers, and service users where appropriate and permissible, to help identify barriers and opportunities for improvement. Feedback from our community informs our ongoing development.