Sussex Outreach Support (SOS) aims to build on the existing strengths of the Etchingham Station Bistro to create a welcoming, accessible community hub. With the bistro already acting as a local gathering place, SOS sees a valuable opportunity to host drop-in sessions, one-to-one support appointments, and informal conversations that help connect residents to the services and activities they need.
By collaborating with local businesses and organisations, SOS will use the Bistro as a space not only for advice and signposting but also for creative and social engagement—reducing isolation, fostering relationships, and building trust. The emphasis will be on low-barrier, stigma-free interaction, with flexibility to respond to the evolving needs and interests of local people. Through this approach, Etchingham Station Bistro will become a cornerstone of community-led support in Rural Rother.
To begin with, SOS will be delivering services from the Bistro every Wednesday. Currently Citizen’s Advice visit every third Wednesday of the month. Rother Voluntary Action will be present twice a month and East Sussex Recovery Alliance will also be visiting more regularly.