Sussex Support Service

Are you a self-starter, enjoy playing games and chatting?
If yes then we want to hear from you to tell you more about our exciting position as a Temporary Activity Assistant at Sussex Support Service CIC, Victoria Pavilion Support Centre, Uckfield, East Sussex.
Working Hours:
​September - October
£12 per hour
Monday , Wednesday & Friday 10:15- 4:30pm (Tuesday & Thursday 10am - 3:15pm cover on request)
Company Benefits
Competitive Salary
Workplace Pension
Salary Sacrifice Scheme
Free hot lunches and refreshments
Some flexible working outside of core services
Excellent holiday entitlement
Training support and development opportunities
Closing date for applications on a rolling basis
Please apply via our website www.sussexsupportservice.com/vacancies where you will be able to download a job description and personal specification.
Due to the nature of the business, the successful candidate will be eligible to an enhanced DBS check.

Beautiful art work created by our service users with Dementia Singing Experience, Sussex and the inspired by Barbara Kasten being exhibited at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill. Every one really enjoyed the session creating such different interpretations of the work.

https://www.dlwp.com/exhibition/barbara-kasten/

Today is the first day of our two week closure at Victoria Pavilion due to essential works being carried out by our landlord Uckfield Town Council thank you to the for there support with housing groups at the civic centre while the work is completed. The team from Sussex Support Service will be based at St Bartholomew's Church, Alleluia Room, Cross in Hand for the next two weeks. You can still get hold of us on our number 01825 760176, please leave a message if we don't answer and we will get back to you as soon as we are able.

Today at Age We Care we managed to keep cool in the lovely Alleluia Room at St Bartholomew's Church, in Cross-In-Hand.
We played lots of fun games with our fantastic volunteers , including Musical Bingo, Hoy, Boccia... and not forgetting all the laughter as usual!
Connor made us a very tasty homemade Chicken, Bacon & Leek Pie.
Luckily we all still had room for a cheeky Ice Cream!
We hope you have enjoyed the warm day as much as we have!

Meet Shirley, our new robopet.

Bought with kind donations to the service.
She is already a big hit with the service users and the team.

She meows, purrs has a heartbeat and moves her head an tail.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/9xzps3E8aQdevcV5/

LIVE MUSIC

The Funky Fiddler is entertaining us this afternoon at our Uplift exhibition. Come along and have a listen. FREE ENTRY

‘UPLIFT’ SUMMER EXHIBITION
SATURDAY 13th & SUNDAY 14th JULY
10am - 4pm
Victoria Pavilion
Victoria Pleasure Ground
Uckfield TN22 5DJ

All proceeds to our Arts for Wellbeing Project

ORIGINALS, PRINTS , CERAMICS and CARDS. SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AND EVERY POCKET

AMPLE FREE PARKING, POP-UP CAFE, FAMILY AND POOCH FRIENDLY

💙Art. 💙 local. 💙community.

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Hello Friends and Family ....

Our Summer exhibition "Uplift "( because that's what we all need!) opens this weekend with an amazing selection of local artists ! You are all warmly invited to the Private View taking place tomorrow FRIDAY 12TH JULY 7-9PM. There will be be wonderful art, company and plenty of free wine and nibbles !!! What more could you want on Friday evening !!! Hope you can make it 😁🥂🍷🖼

If you can't make it on Friday the exhibition continues all weekend 10-4pm and the cafe will be open for amazing cake ! Dogs and kids welcome . All proceeds to the Victoria Pavilion Arts "Arts for Wellbeing Project" 🥰

Being a carer isn't just a role – it's a journey filled with love, dedication and sacrifices. So it's essential to look after your own wellbeing as well. 🌷

Here are some steps to help you get the break you deserve:

Recognise Your Needs: Acknowledge that caring for yourself is just as important as caring for the person you support. Your wellbeing matters!
Reach Out: Don't be afraid to ask for help to get started. Reach out to Care for the Carers, your local carers centre or support groups for guidance and assistance.
Research Options: Explore options in your area. From short activities, day care services to home care assistance, there are ways to take a break while ensuring your friend or family member receives the care they need.
Connect with Others: Join carer support groups to connect with others who understand what you're going through. Sharing experiences can provide comfort and valuable insights.
Plan Ahead: Schedule regular breaks into your caring routine. Whether it's a short time for a cup of coffee and a book, few hours to yourself or a weekend, make self-care a priority.
Take Advantage of Resources: Take advantage of resources offered by organisations such as Care for the Carers, including information, advice, and practical support.
Don't Wait: Don't wait until you're on the brink of breakdown to seek help. Taking breaks regularly is essential for maintaining your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
Empower Yourself!: Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You're not alone on this journey and there are people and resources ready to support you.

If you're unsure where to start, would like some guidance or just listening ear, take the first step towards getting the break you need and chat to Care for the Carers, your local carers centre today. 🙂 Call us on 01323 738390, text us on 07860 077300, email us on [email protected]

💙

What are you doing on Thursday 11th July? Fancy meeting 60+ local businesses from around the Wealden.

We are getting ready to Exhibit at the Wealden Expo with Rotherfield St Martin Mayfacs Disc Dementia and all those other businesses at the East Sussex National Resort.

It's FREE to attend... you can just drop in or register online at www.ashdownradio.com

Come and chat to us and be in with a chance of winning a hamper.

Ashdown Radio

Did you know that in the UK, there are over 6.5 million dedicated carers, providing essential support to their family and friends every single day? That’s 1 in 10 of us.

You are not alone! 🌟

🔍Unfortunately feeling stressed and overwhelmed happens to the majority of carers in the UK.
Research by Carers UK (2019) discovered 72% of carers in the UK report feeling stressed and overwhelmed. This shows it’s even more important than ever for carers to be able to access support they need.

⏸️ Taking a break isn't just a luxury – it's a necessity for carers. Even a short break can significantly reduce stress levels, boost mental alertness and enhance overall wellbeing.

A study by the University of Sheffield (2018) showed carers who take regular breaks experience lower levels of depression and anxiety, allowing them to take better care of themselves and others.

🌿 Most importantly breaks enable carers to prioritise their own health needs, give time for hobbies, and regain their energy.

A survey by Carers Trust (2021) showed a massive 89% of carers reported feeling physically and mentally refreshed after taking a break!

💬 If you're a carer feeling overwhelmed or hesitant about taking a break, know that you're not alone.

Chat to Care for the Carers, your local carers centre to get support and find out how we can support you to take a break. Call us on 01323 738390, text us on 07860 077300, email us on [email protected]

Remember, taking a break is a necessity not a luxury!
💙

🌟 Carers often flip between devotion and exhaustion – taking a break can stop you getting to breaking point . 🌟

💡Extra help can make the world of difference. It can allow you to feel human again, and give you precious moments to switch off and recharge.

Whether it’s going for walks, being able to catch up on sleep, tackling practical tasks, or simply taking care of your own health appointments, those breaks can be lifelines in an otherwise overwhelming journey.

🛑 So, what stops us from accessing help?

Sometimes, it's not recognising ourselves as carers, or feeling like we don't qualify.

Other times, it's the guilt, the financial strain, or the resistance from the ones we care for. Every carer has felt that, but remember seeking help isn't a sign of weakness – it's a sign of strength and self-awareness.

And allowing yourself that rest, will enable you to continue being a great carer.

✨ Taking a break isn't all about pampering yourself (although you totally deserve it). It's about recognising that caring is a job, one of the toughest out there, and every carer needs downtime to stay well and healthy.

🌈 If you're hesitating to ask for help, remember you are not alone, and you are not a fraud for asking for help. Your wellbeing matters, not just for you but for the person you care for.

And guess what? There's a form of help out there that can work for you and your family member or friend you support, whether it's someone coming to your home, a day care service, a social support group, or something else entirely.

💪 You're not just caring for someone else – you're caring for yourself, too. Pause, recharge and return stronger!

Chat to Care for the Carers, your local carers centre for information about all the support that is available to you. Call us on 01323 738390, text us on 07860 077300, email us on [email protected]

🌻

Join us this Saturday for our Creative Cafe 13:30 to 15:30. Bring your own project or have a go with our Arts materials. Cake and refreshments provided.

🌟 Taking on the role of a carer is the biggest act of compassion and kindness. However, it's important to recognise that caring for someone else means caring for yourself. 💕

Just like on a plane, where you're instructed to secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others, taking a break is about ensuring you can continue to give your best care.

🌿 If you're finding it difficult to broach the topic about taking a break and getting help to care for your family member or a friend, know that you're not alone.

It's natural to feel conflicted about needing a break, but it's also crucial for your own wellbeing and the quality of care you provide.

🌟 This decision isn't a sign of weakness or selfishness — it's a brave understanding of your own needs for the right reasons.
Here a some tips to help you:
Find a quiet, peaceful moment where you can both talk without distractions.
Start by expressing your dedication to them. Gently explain that you've been feeling overwhelmed and you need some time to recharge.
Let them know that taking a break doesn't mean you love them or care about any less. They deserve the best care and you need to take care of yourself to give it to them.
Assure them that you're not abandoning them, and you'll make sure they have the support they need while you're taking a break.
Assure them you can both try things out and don’t need to take a decision about any arrangements, before you both feel confident about them.
Talk about care options together, then reassure them that they’ll be well looked after during your break.
Give them space to express how they feel. Validate their emotions and reassure them that you're doing this for both of your wellbeing.
Remind them that you're there for them and that this break will help you care for them, in the best way you can.

Some people struggle to acknowledge they need care and may find it impossible to discuss things, as they may not recognise the support they need or appreciate the scope of the help you already provide. This can be difficult. Please know you are not alone. Speak to your local Carers Centre ( for the Carers) for more coping strategies. We are here to ensure no one is left to care alone. Call us on 01323 738390, text us on 07860 077300, email us on [email protected]

💬 If you have already tried to have the conversation, what was your experience? Your insights could be incredibly valuable to others facing similar challenges. 💖

Remember that caring begins with self care. 💕 🌱

Summer Newsletter is now avalible in print at Victoria Pavilion. Please do pop in and pick one up. If you would like any sent out to your teams or individuals do get in touch - 01825 760176 or email [email protected]

🌟 Being a carer is one of the most selfless roles you can take on, but it's essential to remember that self-care is equally important.

National Carers Week 10-16 June, is raising awareness of the challenges the 5.7 million unpaid carers in the UK face and aim to put carers on the map so they get the recognition and support they deserve. This includes the necessity of taking breaks.

Here are eight reasons why every carer deserves and should prioritise taking a break:
1 Reduce Stress: Even a short break can work wonders in reducing stress levels, allowing you to recharge and face challenges with a clearer mind.
2 Prioritise Your Health: Taking a break gives you the opportunity to focus on your own health needs, ensuring you're fit and able to continue providing care.
3 Pursue Hobbies: Use this time to do things YOU love, whether it's going for a leisurely walk, reading a book, or any activity that makes you happy!
4 Fresh Perspective: Stepping away from your carer role can give you a fresh perspective, helping you return with renewed energy to tackle challenges.
5 Mental Health: If you're feeling mentally drained or struggling with concentration, a break can help rejuvenate you and improve overall focus.
6 Invest in Your Future: Taking time for self-care is an investment in your future, ensuring you have the stamina and resilience to continue providing quality care.
7 Strengthen Relationships: A well-deserved break can strengthen relationships, both with the person you care for and with others in your support network.
8 New Experiences: Taking a break not only benefits you, it also offers the person you care for a chance to enjoy a change of routine or new experiences.

👉 If you're unsure how to take a break or unable to leave the person you care for, chat to Care for the Carers, your local carers centre for information about all the support that is available to you. Call us on 01323 738390, text us on 07860 077300, email us on [email protected]

Remember, you have to care for yourself to care for others!

💙

Join us THIS SATURDAY at your Local Carers Centre in Uckfield for a celebration of all carers!

On Saturday 15th June, come and celebrate you - at ‘Caring Beyond Belief: Celebrating Carers, Celebrating Diversity’.

This drop-in event includes wellbeing workshops ('Laughter workshop' anyone? 😃), music, tasty global foods, and more ...and all completely free!

Drop in at any time, between 11am and 2pm. All are welcome!

Local Carers Centre
Victoria Pavilion
New Town
Uckfield TN22 5DJ



Sussex Support Service

Care for the Carers event today celebrating Carers Voices part of listening to carers and professional colleagues about the challenges facing Carers and putting Carers on the map!

We are lucky to have the most amazing team of Volunteers at Sussex Support Service CIC! They give their time, care and compassion week in week out, from a few hours once a month, to every other week and regularly weekly days which enables the services to run, without them we simply would not be here.
So this we Thank You for your time and dedication.

https://www.facebook.com/share/LerkxbeqP3HCn3z8/

One our fabulous volunteers at Age We Care Sean is raising money for Alzheimer's Research UK by cycling on Wild Atlantic Way friends, along the west coast of Ireland. They will be cycling about 850km, mostly on the Wild Atlantic Way - from Spanish Point to Sligo. Along the way they will be passing through Clifden, his mother's home town. In memory of his mother and father.

He would be very grateful if you would consider sponsoring him via his JustGiving page:

Cycling for Celine and Alan Dexter for Alzheimer's Research Help Sean Dexter raise money to support Alzheimer's Research UK

Care for the Carers are holding a free Arts in Nature Day with lunch next week and there are still spaces avalible. See picture for contact details to book.

Replica care avalible in our Age We Care service just 15 minutes drive away at Cross-in-Hand on request 10 am to 3pm. Please call us on 01825 760176 to discuss.

Busy Saturday for Sussex Support Service, we will be at Heathfield Show. It is the Repair cafe Uckfield 9:30 to 12pm and we have our second Creative Cafe 1:30 to 3pm at Victoria Pavilion!
Victoria Pavilion Arts Repair Café Uckfield
Come along and see us at any of these events. https://www.heathfieldshow.org/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3ZDr5GpF-vDBBH7IKsducpCDVncMJxAnt5XzqJqYj8lIT7lcZB3FVYx9A_aem_AbLKlvxEDdzd70WH0Ktf6o5qDrOn8LOiRfdMnX9nXcCMHh0B-oT1mX_WdiQTmpIruHiFU3pO9gtNq8xHREEHz9YA

Heathfield Agricultural Show England UK Wealden East Sussex Events Agricultural Society Great fun-filled pack day, click below to see what's going on

ARTIST CALL OUT

Victoria Pavilion Arts is inviting submissions for our annual summer exhibition entitled 'UPLIFT' taking place at Victoria Pavilion in Uckfield. All East Sussex based artists may apply but we will be looking to prioritise applicants from Wealden and nearby first.

Visual artists working in any disciplines may apply including but not limited to - painting, printmaking, digital, photography, mixed media, textiles, ceramics and sculpture.

The exhibition will be held to raise funds for our Arts for Wellbeing Programme

Artworks should explore and respond to the theme “UPLIFT”

Uplift : A simple word but what does it mean to you? Perhaps to transport to a happier or safer place; to inspire, to elevate or to raise the spirits. It may be physical, emotional or spiritual but the word itself undoubtedly engenders feelings of positivity, regrowth and betterment.

The theme was chosen as it represents the benefits we aim to achieve in our Arts for Wellbeing sessions and the emotions we encounter from those taking part, a boost to mind and body, increased confidence, cheerfulness and optimism . It also reflects our mission as an organisation to improve and raise individual and community wellbeing
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Important dates⁠
Entry deadline: Monday 3rd June at midnight
Exhibition at Gallery: Friday 12th - Sunday 14th July
Delivery of artworks : Saturday 7th July
Collection of artworks: Sunday 14th / Monday 15th July

If you are interested in submitting work please contact Helen at [email protected] for more information on how to apply.

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