High Sheriff visits inspirational Together Our Community (TOC) in Chichester
At the very end of his busy year as High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Tim Fooks has praised the work of Together Our Community (TOC) during a visit to its new town-centre base in Chichester, highlighting the charity’s growing impact in supporting young adults with different abilities.
TOC, which works with people aged 18 to 35, is dedicated to helping individuals develop practical skills, confidence and independence in a supportive, structured environment. Since relocating to its purpose-designed building in late summer 2025, the charity has significantly expanded its offer, creating new opportunities for learning, work experience and personal development.
At the heart of the new facility is a professional training kitchen and hospitality hub, where young people gain hands-on experience in food preparation, hygiene, catering and customer service. The programme is further enhanced by the on-site Boardwalk Café, which provides a real-world setting for participants to build workplace skills such as taking orders, preparing drinks and working as part of a team.
The café has quickly become a valued community space, welcoming local residents and visitors while helping trainees take their first steps into employment. For many, it represents a vital bridge between education and the workplace, with noticeable improvements in confidence and communication.
The move has also enabled TOC to strengthen its wellbeing provision, with a dedicated space for fitness sessions, mindfulness activities and group workshops aimed at supporting both mental and physical health. Partnerships with local organisations have expanded, allowing for more coordinated volunteering placements and collaborative projects.
Earlier this month, TOC hosted its first pathway careers event, bringing together families, carers and partner organisations to explore future opportunities for the young people involved. The new central location has made it easier to build and maintain these important relationships.
A key feature of TOC’s approach is its focus on personalised learning, with each participant following an individual pathway tailored to their goals and aspirations. Daily reflection sessions ensure that young people remain actively involved in shaping their own progress.
Chief Executive Hilary Freeborough said the move had been transformative, giving participants “more opportunities, more space to grow, and more chances to show what they are capable of.”
Dr Tim Fooks, High Sheriff of West Sussex, said: “TOC is an inspiring example of what can be achieved when inclusive ambition is matched with excellent facilities. Their purpose-designed building has created a space full of joy and hope – you can sense it as you come through the door – and it is clear that the young people feel a genuine sense of belonging and know that they matter. The confidence, skills and independence being developed here are truly life-changing”.
Residents are encouraged to visit TOC’s 5-star rated Boardwalk Café in Chichester, where all profits are reinvested to expand training opportunities for young people.
TOC continues to welcome enquiries from businesses interested in placements or partnerships and the charity can be contacted at: [email protected]