About us

Supporting people to feel safe, live well and thrive

A not-for-profit organisation providing housing, mental health support, and specialist care for people with learning disabilities across Sussex - since 1972.

Who we are and what we do

Since 1972, we have worked alongside people, families, and communities to help individuals feel safe, live well, and lead fulfilling lives.

Today, we support over 10,000 people each year through more than 60 services. Around 1,000 colleagues deliver everything from supported housing and community mental health services to employment support and registered care.

10,000
People supported each year
60+
Services across Sussex
50+
Years experience

What makes us different

We listen before we act, work alongside you rather than doing things to you, and stick around for as long as you need us.

This comes from three beliefs that shape everything we do:

A safe home

provides the foundation for stability and opportunity

Housing support

Connection and purpose

help people thrive in their communities

Mental health support

Person-centred support

empowers people to lead their own lives

Learning disability support

Looking for support?

Find out what services are available to you or someone you care about.

Get support

Where we're heading

Our 2025–2030 strategy sets out how we will grow and strengthen our work over the coming years.

Grounded in over 50 years of experience and shaped by the voices of colleagues, clients and partners, the strategy responds directly to the challenges facing our communities — from the housing crisis and rising mental health needs, to fragmented systems and growing inequalities.

At its heart are four strategic aims:

  • Breaking down silos – making support seamless across housing, health and care
  • Expanding housing access – creating more safe, secure homes as the foundation for stability
  • Enabling independence and meaningful purpose – opening up opportunities for work, volunteering and connection
  • Creating financial flexibility and resilience – building strong foundations to protect and grow services for the future
Download strategy 2025–2030

Our history

Southdown began in 1972 when a group of volunteers in Brighton saw people with mental health challenges being resettled from long-stay hospitals – and decided to act.

They fundraised to buy our first property and provided not just housing, but support that helped people live well in the community.

From those beginnings, we’ve grown to become one of the largest voluntary sector organisations in Sussex. But our founding belief remains the same: that everyone deserves a safe home, the right support, and the chance to thrive.

1,000+ Colleagues

60+ Services

10,000+ People supported each year

Sussex Wide coverage