Residents celebrate Sussex Housing & Care's 80th Anniversary at Clevedown in Lewes | News

Residents, colleagues, and guests came together at Clevedown sheltered housing scheme in Lewes on Wednesday 2 September to celebrate a remarkable milestone as Sussex Housing & Care marked its 80th anniversary.

The special celebration marked eight decades of providing housing, care and support to older people across Sussex and featured live entertainment from a talented singer who had residents and guests singing and dancing. The event provided an opportunity for everyone to come together, reflect on the organisation's history and celebrate the vibrant retirement community that exists at Clevedown today.

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of Sussex Housing & Care's 80^th anniversary poetry competition award. Won by Jac Fairbain, a resident at Clevedown, everyone enjoyed reading the winning poem, with the competition providing a wonderful opportunity to showcase creativity and celebrate the talents of residents.

The scheme was decorated for the occasion and residents enjoyed refreshments and a celebration cake, while sharing memories, meeting visitors and viewing Sussex Housing & Care memorabilia from years gone by. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of music, laughter and sharing of memories, including the "80 Years, 80 Voices" project, which brought together residents and staff to share words that capture the spirit and values of Sussex Housing & Care.

Tracy Evans, Chief Executive of Sussex Housing & Care, said: "Celebrating 80 years is a fantastic milestone. It’s a chance to celebrate the difference Sussex Housing & Care has made to older people across Sussex, thank residents, colleagues and supporters who have been part of that journey and look ahead to the future. Clevedown is our largest retirement community, and the largest in Sussex, and the celebrations reflected the warmth, creativity and community spirit that we are proud of."

Guests included Councillor Adrian Ross, Mayor of Lewes, and Councillor Paul Keene (Lewes Priory) who enjoyed meeting residents. Councillor Ross said: "Congratulations to Clevedown in reaching this milestone! It's great that this housing scheme for older people is thriving and has such a long legacy in Lewes. It was a real pleasure to meet with both residents and staff to celebrate; thank you for inviting me."

Sussex Housing & Care are holding celebration events at all their housing schemes and care homes across September and October this year, to celebrate with residents, staff, volunteers, friends and families.

Sussex Housing & Care continues to provide high-quality housing, care and support services to older people across Sussex, helping residents live independently while enjoying fulfilling and connected lives.