Working together to support our communities

We know that finding support when you need it can be hard, so our Communities team works closely with a wide and diverse range of local organisations, from small volunteer‑led groups to larger charities and partners to enable residents to find the help and services they need.

By working in partnership, it helps us respond to local challenges, share knowledge, and make the most of the skills, passion and expertise that exist within our communities. We want to enable our residents to reach the support and help they need before issues escalate, so we help ensure there are strong support sector networks.

Building local networks

A key part of our work focuses on bringing people together. We regularly host and support network meetings that connect organisations, community leaders and key voices.

These meetings provide space to share insights, identify growing needs and work collaboratively on solutions that benefit residents.

We work with organisations that receive council funding, for example, Age UK, Horsham Matters, Citizens Advice, as well as many others.

We offer access to training opportunities, guidance and shared learning, to help organisations build capacity and strengthen their impact. Find out about training opportunities at: www.horsham.gov.uk/voluntary‑sector‑support/events-and‑training

Creating opportunities to connect

We actively look for opportunities to bring organisations together at our public-facing events, giving residents the chance to meet service providers directly. An example of this is our Winter Warm Up events in October. These free activity taster days are designed for those aged 50 and over, to find out more about the fantastic facilities, groups and classes available locally and also offer a vibrant marketplace of local support organisations in an informal setting.  Find out more on our Winter Warm Ups page.

For those looking online, we have a local service directory which provides a simple way to find information about local organisations and the services they offer, helping residents connect with the right support quickly and easily.  Find out more at www.horsham.gov.uk/community/community‑support

Supporting residents through partnership

All of this work plays a vital role in supporting our residents whether through advice services, community activities, health and wellbeing support, cost‑of‑living help or social connection. By working with a broad range of organisations, we help foster a sector that is able to respond flexibly to local needs and ensure support is inclusive, accessible and rooted in our communities.