About Southwick Community Centre
Southwick Community Centre
Founded in 1945, we are one of the oldest community associations in the country. As a registered charity, we are independently managed by a board of volunteer trustees – elected by the user groups and individual members who are affiliated to the Association. We have a small team of dedicated office and caretaking staff, but a great deal of activity is undertaken by volunteers.
Our one-acre site sits in a conservation area and our ‘Homestead’ building is Grade 2 listed. The original farm structures have been extended and improved over the years to create a large complex of community buildings.
We receive no public funding for the running of the facilities – the costs are covered entirely by income from our users. On top of that, renewing and improving the facilities depends heavily on fundraising and donations.
Here is a link to our most recent annual report and accounts.
Southwick Community Centre
Our goal is to provide a space where different disciplines come together to enhance the well-being of children, adolescents and families.Our mission is to nurture the development of children, adolescents and families so that they can resiliently meet the challenges of modern, everyday life, transforming those challenges into opportunities for personal growth.
The vision of Southwick Community Association is:
That all residents living in Southwick enjoy a high quality of life, are able to achieve their economic, social and educational goals, and are part of a strong, prosperous and caring local community.
In order to achieve its vision, Southwick Community Association has as its mission:
To manage a community building which provides high quality facilities and a range of activities, that are accessible to all sections of the Southwick community and the wider Adur region.
To continuously develop and update the building, to meet the changing needs and expectations of the community, both now and in the future.
To provide accommodation for local community groups and public sector organisations in order to enhance local services for residents, particularly for those people who are disadvantaged, vulnerable or who face difficulties accessing provision appropriate to their particular needs and circumstances.
To develop activities that increase participation in civic life, including through providing local residents with opportunities for self-development, volunteering and involvement in local decision-making.
Southwick Community Association operates within the following values
Equal Opportunities
Community Cohesion
Southwick Community Association is committed to helping create a strong and prosperous community in which individuals from all cultures, backgrounds and beliefs are able to develop mutual understanding and respect.
Democracy and Accountability
Southwick Community Association is a membership organisation and its management committee is accountable to the community through open meetings and the annual election of its officers. It regularly communicates with and consults all sectors of the community, to ensure that its planning and decision making continues to reflect locally identified priorities.
Partnership Working
Southwick Community Association believes that collaboration with voluntary and community groups, public sector bodies and private sector businesses improves its ability to enhance resources and deliver better services.
Independence and Financial Sustainability
Environmental Sustainability
Management
From its foundation in 1945, the Community Association has been governed democratically from within its membership. As a registered charity (since 1962) we have a governing body of trustees who are elected annually at the AGM. You can see a list of the current trustees here.
Recognition & Awards
Frequently Asked Questions
Southwick Community Centre is a versatile venue that can accommodate a wide range of events, including meetings, conferences, weddings, parties, theatre performances, and gigs.
You can book a room at Southwick Community Centre by contacting us through the details provided on our contact page. Our team will assist you with the booking process and provide you with all the necessary information.
Yes, we provide a range of audio-visual equipment for events, including microphones, sound control, projectors, screens, and stage lighting. Please specify your requirements when booking.
Yes, we greatly appreciate the support of volunteers in a variety of roles. Please contact us if you’re interested in volunteering, and we’ll discuss how you can get involved.
Our Catering team in the Barn Café provide exclusive in-house catering for events and parties. See our catering page for more information. We can also provide buffet lunches or continental breakfasts in your rooms for meetings. Please discuss this with us when making your booking.
The capacity of the rooms varies depending on the room and the seating arrangement. For example, The Barn can accommodate up to 150 attendees in a theatre-style configuration.
The charges for room hire vary depending on the room, duration of the hire, and any additional services required. Detailed pricing information can be found on our website, or you can contact us directly for a quote.
The café is open from 9.30am-2pm, Monday-Friday.
Tuesdays 2-4pm feel free to drop in for a free hot drink and a chat with our Tea and Co. group.
Well behaved dogs are welcome in the garden except during events when large crowds can be distressing for them.
Southwick Community CentreThank You, Trustees
To all our trustees, thank you. Your wisdom, guidance, and commitment profoundly impact our Centre and our community. We deeply appreciate your service and look forward to continuing to build our community together.