Mental Health Provider Reassures Users Amid Concerns Over Service Changes In Brighton

A mental health services provider has moved to reassure users it will continue to play an important role in supporting people, following concerns about changes to services in Brighton.

Southdown, which runs the Preston Park Wellbeing Hub, responded after a petition was presented to Brighton & Hove City Council raising fears about potential cuts.

The changes come as NHS Sussex reorganises services following a recent merger.

Southdown says reports suggesting services would be reduced to just a few hours a week are incorrect.

The organisation has instead outlined a redesigned model aimed at helping more people access support.

The Preston Park Wellbeing Hub will remain in operation, with its crisis support service “Staying Well” continuing to run seven evenings a week.

A range of activities and group sessions will also continue, operating across four days each week.

The provider says the changes reflect a wider national shift in mental health care, focusing on more localised, neighbourhood-based support and closer working between NHS and voluntary organisations.

As part of the new approach, more structured, time-limited group sessions will be introduced, with fewer open-ended activities.

Southdown says this will allow more people to benefit from services throughout the year, while existing users will still have access to regular social spaces and familiar activities.

A transition period is now underway and will run until the end of June, giving current users time to adapt and explore the new support available.

Despite the reassurances, some service users remain concerned, particularly about changes to daytime preventative support.

Campaigners say the hub has been a vital space for connection and wellbeing.

In response, councillors have agreed to ask the council’s Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee to consider pausing the changes.

The committee is expected to meet later this month.

Anyone needing urgent mental health support is advised to contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option, call Samaritans on 116 123, text SUSSEX to 85258, or visit a Staying Well service.