. . . .In 1999 a group of peoplefrom the local community decided that there was an urgent need for a self-help/support group to provide assistance to people in our local area, particularly because a number of other agencies, such as Home Care, had reviewed their services.

. . . .With the blessing of the Social Services and support from the Council for Voluntary Services, VILLAGE FRIENDS was born. Although originally only working within Barnham and Eastergate, we now encompass Aldingbourne, Fontwell, Walberton, Westergate, and Yapton as well. Referrals come from the Social Services, St Richards Hospitals, CVS, Doctors Surgeries, other agencies, and from members of the community.

. . . .We work with a wide variety of people, of all ages, and with many different problems from impaired sight and mobility difficulties, to those facing special difficult circumstances at this time. Help can be practical or simply a friendly listening ear.

. . . .Our volunteers come from all walks of life, some are highly skilled in specialised areas i.e. councellors and people who work with the special needs of children, together with those who have a wide experience of life.

. . . .Membership of VILLAGE FRIENDS is £5 per year and entitles the member to attend the periodic tea parties and other communial events plus the services of a volunteer to meet a particular need, as appropriate.

. . . .If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with a project or would like more inforhation about VILLAGE FRIENDS please contact Sue Bond.

. . . .You can visit Sue for advice and help with any information within the voluntary sector or with any queries you may have about the project with VOLLAGE FRIENDS by popping into "The Church in the Market Place" at the Parish Office (phone:- 01243 553955) for a chat. Sue is there between 11.00 am and 12.30 pm on the 1st Thursday of each month. (8th March, 5th April, and so on)