Two Lewes charities merge to strengthen support for older people

Two long-standing charities in Lewes, Age UK East Sussex and the Lewes House of Friendship, officially merged on 2 March 2026.

 The move is designed to protect and strengthen local services for older people in response to rising demand and increasing cost-of-living pressures. 

Key Merger Details

• Operational Continuity: There are no immediate changes to services at the Lewes House of Friendship. The name and building at 208 High Street will remain, and all current activities, including lunches and home-cooked meal deliveries, will continue as usual.
• Enhanced Support: Members of the House of Friendship now have direct access to Age UK East Sussex's wider county-wide services, which include health and financial advice, befriending support, and specialist help through GP practices.
• Leadership Goals: Steve Hare, Chief Executive of Age UK East Sussex, stated the merger aims to combine the strengths and expertise of both organisations to ensure long-term resilience for the town's growing older population. 

Services and Access

The combined entity continues to offer a variety of social and practical support: 

• Activities: Choir, craft sessions, and exercise classes.
• Meals: On-site affordable lunches and home delivery for those unable to attend in person.
• Advice: Free, confidential information on money, care, and legal matters.
• Contact: New members can join by calling 01273 476469 or dropping into the House of Friendship between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm on weekdays.