Haywards Heath care home residents celebrate Sussex Housing & Care's 80th anniversary with community celebration and time capsule

Residents, families, colleagues, and members of the local community came together at Oakwood Court care home in Haywards Heath on Tuesday 3 November to celebrate a remarkable milestone as Sussex Housing & Care marked its 80th anniversary.

The special event formed part of a programme of celebrations taking place across Sussex to honour eight decades of providing housing, care and support to older people.

Guests enjoyed a morning of memories, reflection and celebration 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.

A highlight of the celebration was planting a commemorative time capsule in the grounds of Oakwood Court. Filled with photographs, messages and mementoes it captures a snapshot of life at Sussex Housing & Care in 2026 for future generations to discover.

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. The time capsule is a lovely way of capturing this moment and preserving the stories, memories and experiences that make Sussex Housing & Care such a special organisation.”

Guests included Councillor Abdul Bashar, Deputy Mayor of Haywards Heath who enjoyed meeting residents. Councillor Bashar said: “It’s been a privilege to be here meeting all the lovely residents and hearing how much they enjoy living at Oakwood Court. The facilities here are wonderful and I’ve visited many times over the years, I always received a warm welcome. Celebrating 80 years is a real achievement for Sussex Housing & Care, congratulations!”