As I enter my third and final year as Mayor of Uckfield, I have reflected on what truly makes our town such a special place. Uckfield’s success is built on three pillars: business, volunteers, and the charitable sector. Together, they create a thriving economy, a caring community, and a town where people genuinely support one another.
Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of meeting so many members of our vibrant business community. Many of you have welcomed me into your workplaces, shared your business journeys, and given me the opportunity to see first-hand the commitment, innovation and resilience that underpin our local economy. It has been both inspiring and rewarding, and I would like to thank you for the warm welcome and continued support you have shown throughout my mayoral term.
It is also important to recognise the vital role our businesses play beyond their day-to-day operations. From supporting community groups and sponsoring local initiatives to fundraising for charities and volunteering their time, their contribution extends far beyond commerce. Their generosity has a meaningful and lasting impact across our town, helping to strengthen the communities we all serve.
Despite the well-documented challenges facing high streets nationally, Uckfield continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability. Our High Street is not only enduring but evolving, with businesses continuing to innovate, grow and invest in the future. Wealden is home to more than a third of East Sussex’s businesses, highlighting the significant contribution our local business community makes to the county’s economy. As Uckfield continues to grow, strong collaboration between local businesses, the Town Council, and our partner authorities—whatever shape Local Government Reorganisation takes—will be increasingly important in ensuring sustainable economic development and continued prosperity.
Alongside our thriving businesses, our community is built on the dedication of volunteers. Over the last 2 years, I have had the privilege of meeting so many volunteers, community groups, and charities. Each has reminded me just how vital the voluntary sector is—not only for those it supports but for the strength of our entire community.
Volunteers change lives. Across the UK, unpaid carers save the NHS and social care system an estimated £184 billion each year, while formal volunteering contributes a further £24–25 billion annually to the economy. Yet their true value cannot be measured in financial terms. It is found in the lives they touch, the friendships they create and the stronger, more connected communities they help to build.
The voluntary sector does, however, face increasing challenges. Many long-serving volunteers are now reaching an age where they themselves need support, while others are remaining in work for longer or taking on childcare responsibilities for their families. As a result, many charities and community organisations are finding it harder to recruit and retain volunteers. This is why strong partnerships between businesses, local authorities and the voluntary sector have never been more important.
It is this shared spirit of community that inspired me to choose EGFR+ (UK) and PHAB as my Mayor’s Charities.
My connection to EGFR+ (UK) is deeply personal. A dear friend, Penny, was diagnosed with Stage 4 EGFR-positive lung cancer following routine blood tests. Like many people, neither of us had heard of this type of lung cancer before her diagnosis. EGFR-positive lung cancer can affect people who have never smoked and accounts for around 10–15% of lung cancer cases in the UK, predominantly affecting women.
PHAB is an organisation built on the belief that disabled and non-disabled people should enjoy life together as equals. Our local PHAB group meets monthly at Ridgewood Village Hall, creating opportunities for friendship, inclusion and shared experiences. Their inspiring motto says it all: “Everyone can do everything.”
To raise awareness and funds for these two wonderful charities, I will be abseiling down the iconic Spinnaker Tower on 20 September, joined by the Deputy Mayor, the Town Crier, the Assistant Town Clerk, my sister and two close friends. We also have several fundraising events planned throughout the year, and every donation or ticket bought will help make a real difference. Any support that you feel your business can offer would be very appreciated.
Please contact me at: karen.bedwell@uckfieldtc.gov.uk
Finally, I look forward to seeing our outstanding local businesses recognised and celebrated at this year’s Business Awards. It is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the innovation, resilience and community spirit that continue to make Uckfield such a great place to live, work and do business
Cllr Karen Bedwell
Mayor of Uckfield