Reaching more people, changing more lives: Horsham Matters secures county council funding

Horsham Matters, a local charity that operates across the Horsham District, is delighted to announce new funding from West Sussex County Council (WSCC). The charity relieves hardship and offers practical support through 15 weekly foodbank sessions, Outreach and Support, and two Connecting Cafés.

The funding will increase the charity’s reach and Outreach and Support services by 15% over the next six months. More people across the District will be able to access guidance and signposting on benefits advice, housing support, budgeting and debt guidance, signposting to other local organisations, and to do so earlier, before difficulties escalate into crisis.

Support on the Go, a new service the funding has allowed, enables Horsham Matters’ Community Support Advisors to visit local community groups, coffee mornings and local events to offer guidance, information and practical support in settings people may find beneficial. This allows them to reach more individuals and families, helping them access the support they need before their difficulties escalate into crisis.

Alongside it, Support on the Move, the charity’s mobile outreach service, continues to take support into towns and villages across the District. People can drop in or book a one-to-one appointment with a Community Support Advisor.

Kelvin Glen, CEO of Horsham Matters, said: “This funding from West Sussex County Council enables Horsham Matters to reach more people, earlier. By taking our services into communities across the district, we can provide preventative support before problems escalate into crisis, helping residents build resilience, maintain independence, and access the support they need to move forward with confidence.”

The charity would also like to thank John Milne, Local MP, for his support and for visiting our new vehicle in person. John Milne said: “This is fantastic news for the Horsham District. Horsham Matters does vital work helping local residents access the support they need, particularly with the ongoing cost of living pressures facing many households. This funding will allow the team to reach even more people with support and advice. I would encourage anyone who is struggling or worried about their finances to get in touch to find out what help is available.

 Thank you to the Horsham Matters team for all the work they do to support our community.”

 Horsham Matters would like to extend its sincere thanks to West Sussex County Council. This funding is the result of a valued partnership, and the charity is grateful for the confidence WSCC has placed in its work.

Together, Horsham Matters and WSCC will work towards a District where everyone has access to the support they need.

Anyone who would like support can contact Horsham Matters by:

• Phone / WhatsApp: 0300 124 0204

• Email: [email protected]

You might not need this support yourself, but you may know someone who does. Please share these details with friends, family, neighbours or colleagues. Find out where the Support on the Go and Support on the Move team will be next: https://www.horsham-matters.org.uk/get-help-now/community-support-and-advice/