Listening first: How community conversations are shaping our work in Southwick
Hi! I’m Alex Watts.
I joined Keychange in August as the Project Lead for the Community Connectors pilot in Southwick, and knew early on that the only meaningful way to shape the project was through listening. If this project was going to make a real difference, it needed to be shaped by listening to the people it exists to support.
In those early months, I focused on getting to know the community properly. I spent time at coffee mornings, chatted with people at church socials, met local faith and community leaders, and listened as local residents shared their experiences of ageing in Southwick. These conversations laid the foundations for the project and helped shape how I approached the work.
What we heard: common barriers and personal experiences
As I spoke with more people, consistent themes began to emerge. Transport, mobility and low confidence were mentioned again and again as barriers that prevent older residents from getting out, taking part in activities or reconnecting socially. These challenges often feed into loneliness – but one thing became very clear: loneliness is deeply personal. For one person, it may follow the loss of a partner; for another, it may be the worry of going out alone; for someone else, it may be the gradual reduction in social opportunities over time.
Southwick has a great deal to offer. There is so much happening every week through groups and activities, and a genuine kindness that runs through local churches and community organisations. And yet, many people still feel unable to access what’s available.
Capturing quieter voices
To build a fuller picture, I also carried out more structured research through a community questionnaire aimed at older people living independently at home. This helped capture the voices of those who might not attend groups or feel confident speaking openly, adding depth to everything I had been hearing.
From insights to action
All this work came together in December with the publication of Building Connections – Insights into the Older Community of Southwick. The report marks an important milestone for the pilot – bringing together months of listening and learning, and setting out what needs to change to support older residents more effectively.
The report marks an important milestone - bringing together months of listening and learning
What comes next
These insights are now shaping the next phase of the Community Connectors project. The next steps will be rooted in Southwick itself, shaped with the people who live here, and focused on making participation easier and more accessible for everyone. Ultimately, the aim is to help older residents feel connected, confident and able to live life as fully as possible within their community.
I look forward to sharing more as the project continues to grow.