Cllr. Deborah Donovan

16/06/2026

Lewes District Council is inviting local groups - including voluntary, not-for-profit and faith organisations - to apply for grants from a new £50,000 programme supporting projects that bring people together, challenge division and strengthen social cohesion across the district.

The Community and Social Cohesion Grants Programme will fund initiatives that promote inclusion, reduce isolation, and foster stronger connections across neighbourhoods.

Grants of between £500 and £10,000 are available for Lewes district-based groups to run projects that deliver clear benefits for local communities.

The council is particularly keen to back schemes that help build a stronger sense of belonging and shared community spirit across the district’s coastal strip.

Councillor Christine Robinson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, said: “This new grants programme is a fantastic opportunity for local groups to make a real difference in their communities. We know that small projects can have a big impact when it comes to bringing people together and strengthening social cohesion.”

A wide range of projects will be considered, including community events, workshops and activities that celebrate diversity and encourage participation in local life for all residents.

Councillor Robinson added: “We are committed to championing initiatives that promote inclusion and community spirit across Lewes district. I would encourage all eligible groups to consider applying and help us create vibrant, supportive places for everyone.”

This grants programme builds on the success of the Community of Kindness scheme earlier this year, which used public art to promote messages of respect, inclusion and unity – a visible reminder that communities are stronger when they stand together against division.

For full details and to apply visit the link in the comments.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

16/06/2026

Would you like to join us on a trip to RHS Wisley
Cost: £28.00 including entry.
Date: Saturday 4th July
Leaving Greenwich Way at 9.30am
Leaving Wisley at 3.30pm

For further info please contact Alison on 07805857569

15/06/2026

Happy Sussex Day! Today, June 16, we celebrate the rich history, beautiful landscapes, and culture of Sussex 🌊🏰

Whether you are walking the South Downs, enjoying the coast, or eating a slice of Sussex Pond Pudding, today is the day to show your pride.

Sussex Pond Pudding is a traditional English steamed dessert featuring a suet pastry filled with butter, sugar, and a whole, unpeeled lemon, which creates a rich, buttery, and tangy syrup when cooked. The "pond" refers to this sweet, lemony sauce that pools on the plate when the pudding is inverted and cut open. It's a comforting, old-fashioned pudding with origins dating back centuries, often served with cream or custard. Yummy 😋

How are you celebrating your Sussex roots today? Let me know below! 👇

13/06/2026

11/06/2026

Peacehaven Horticultural Society are inviting all allotment holders to an informal afternoon tea, this Saturday 8th June.

Please turn up at anytime from 2.00 pm Peacehaven Horticultural Society ☕️ 🍰 🥤

10/06/2026

The World Cup is just around the corner. For many, this is an exciting time to get together with family, friends and our community. For others it can bring heightened emotion, stress and challenges.

We’ll be here to remind you to:

⚽Enjoy the World Cup
⚽Celebrate safely
⚽Support each other

Find out more about staying safe during the World Cup: https://www.safeineastsussex.org.uk/staying-safe-during-the-world-cup

10/06/2026

With the government’s consultation on potential boundary changes now entering its final days, residents across Lewes district are being urged to make sure their voices are included before the process closes at 11.59pm on Monday 15 June.

The proposals under consideration could see Falmer, East Saltdean, Telscombe and Peacehaven transferred from Lewes district into Brighton & Hove.

More than 160 people recently packed into the Meridian Centre in Peacehaven for a public meeting where residents and councillors discussed the plans.

While most of the meeting opposed the prospect of becoming part of the city, many residents also expressed a clear desire for transparency, particularly around Brighton & Hove’s rationale for seeking to incorporate the four areas.

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said:

“People deserve clarity, honesty and the chance to shape decisions that affect their daily lives. Whatever your view, it is vital that you take part in this consultation so that government hears the full breadth of opinion across our district.”

This is the government’s second consultation on local government reorganisation, yet the findings of the first have still not been released. This has raised concerns, but council leaders are emphasising that the priority now is ensuring every affected resident has the opportunity to respond directly.

Councillor Christine Robinson, Deputy Leader, added:

“The turnout at the public meeting showed just how much people care. Whether you oppose the proposal, support it or are still undecided, your perspective matters. This is your community and your future, so please make sure your voice is counted.”

To complete the consultation visit the link in the comments.

05/06/2026

Pop along and give your support ☕️

04/06/2026

I paid tribute to our local volunteers in my speech last Wednesday (Town Meeting). I want to reemphasise my personal thanks.

💙 To our amazing local community and the incredible volunteers of Peacehaven!

💙Today, I want to give a massive shout-out to the wonderful volunteers who give their time, energy, and hearts to Peacehaven.

Right here in our local community, you are making a massive difference every single day. Whether you are helping out behind the scenes, greeting visitors with a smile, or supporting our local projects, your dedication does not go unnoticed. You are the true heartbeat of Peacehaven, and our local community is so much stronger and brighter because of you.

THANK YOU! 🙌✨

Please drop a comment below to thank a volunteer who has made your day brighter!👇🏻