Francesca Lowton
12 February, 2025
News

Havens Community Hub Featured on BBC Politics South East

On Sunday, 9th February 2025, Havens Community Hub was featured on BBC Politics South East, shining a spotlight on the vital role of volunteers and the charities that serve as a safety net for our communities. 

Havens Connections Café Volunteer Emma Scorgie being interviewed by Marcella Whittingdale.

 The segment, filmed by journalist Marcella Whittingdale, highlighted the incredible work of the Hub’s projects, including:  Havens Connections Café– a space for social connection and support Havens Food Cooperative– a food waste prevention initiative tackling food insecurity Havens Happy Clubs– a support service for older adults Havens Community Cars– a volunteer-led transport service .

A Call for Greater Support for the Voluntary Sector-

During the broadcast, an important discussion unfolded about the crucial role of voluntary organisations and how local and national authorities could do more to support them. The segment emphasised that:

·        These initiatives are lifelines for individuals and families, providing essential services like food access, social opportunities, and transport.

Havens Community Hub Volunteer, Andy Marzetti interviewed by Marcella Whittingdale.
Havens Community Hub Volunteer, Andy Marzetti interviewed by Marcella Whittingdale. Credit: Havens Community Hub

·        Their success is powered by dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy to make a difference.

·        Despite their impact, many causes struggle with funding and resources, making long-term sustainability a challenge.

The “Upside-Down” Approach to Community Development

Founder and CEO of Havens Community Hub interviewed by Marcella Whitttingdale.
Founder and CEO of Havens Community Hub interviewed by Marcella Whitttingdale. Credit: Havens Community Hub

Paula Woolven, Founder and CEO of Havens Community Hub, spoke about the Hub’s unique “upside-down” method of community development. Unlike traditional top-down approaches, the Hub starts by identifying real needs within the community before developing innovative, sustainable initiatives to address them.

This approach ensures that every project is rooted in genuine community demand, creating long-lasting solutions that truly make a difference. The BBC South East feature showcased how this grassroots model has successfully shaped essential local services, demonstrating the power of people-led change in the Havens area, East Sussex.

To watch the segment visit: bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m000dk0t/politics-south-east

To get involved with the Hub and its projects view: havenscommunityhub.co.uk/food or contact havenscommunityhub@gmail.com