The Brighton Connectiv: February 2025

A celebration of dynamic 'doing' by and for people who live, work, love, build and collaborate in Brighton & Hove. Use this news to reach out and build a connected web.

Richard Freeman

Sarah Ticho

Charlie Symonds

, and 3 others

Feb 23, 2025

Edited by Richard Freeman, CEO of always possible

Hello!

A couple of shameless plugs from me, in exchange for diligently editing this for you each month.

There is more on the coming devolution and Brighton/Sussex metro mayor below. But if you wanted to explore the implications, opportunities and risks in depth then please do sign up for one of my talks at Projects on 10th, 17th and 24th March. Subscribers to The Brighton Connectiv get £5 all tickets by using the code CONNECTIV when booking through Eventbrite.

And I’m also crowdfunding for a big new project called How England Works. It will be a bite-sized podcast and animation series explaining, in human, how the more baffling systems that drive the economy and public services in England actually work. I’m currently interviewing hundred of experts and will be your best friend for ever if you’d consider backing the project with a couple of £. before 16th March.

» How England Works

Thanks, Richard

Devolution revolution

The dominant news is that it has been confirmed there will be an elected mayor of Sussex & Brighton, changing many aspects of local economic, infrastructure and public service design.

In this LinkedIn article, Geri Silverstone from Brighton-based Silverstone Communications explains why businesses shouldn’t ignore devolution. He argues that as regional governments gain more control over policy and investment, companies need to adjust their strategies to navigate a more fragmented regulatory landscape. Geri highlights that by embracing localised decision-making, firms can exploit regional strengths, manage risks more effectively, and unlock new growth opportunities in an evolving economic environment.

Speak your mind

The UK Government’s consultation on Sussex and Brighton devolution invites feedback on proposals to devolve powers to these regions. The consultation outlines plans to enhance local decision-making, boost economic development, and tailor policies to the specific needs of Sussex and Brighton. But will it work for you?Let the, know.

Startup your engines

TechRound magazine has produced a guide to launching a business in Brighton & Hove. The article looks at market niches, workforce development, and accessing local funding and mentoring.

Developing the future

Brighton MET’s T-Level Digital Services and future T-Level students have been celebrated for completing an intensive four-day project with DabApps. During this live project, students designed and prototyped an app aimed at supporting one of the UN Sustainability Goals. The focus was on using UX/UI and app development, and demonstrating effective collaboration and creative problem-solving as well as gaining invaluable industry experience.

The project received robust support from DabApps staff, joined on panel judges by other local businesses always possible and Macknowlogist, offering critical feedback and guidance.

A brave admission

Brighton’s radical changes school admissions rules are getting national headlines. Following the Class Divide campaign, Brighton & Hove City Council have pledged to prioritise local catchment areas and test new holistic criteria with the aim of improving access to quality education for underprivileged students. This will promote a more diverse and inclusive school community, says the Times Educational Supplement.

The morning after the night before

Not Going Home is a new photobook by London-based photographer Alex Wright, renowned for his keen eye on underground club culture. The project captures the raw energy and early morning afterglow of late 90s UK clubbing, with many moments of Brighton nightlife included. Wright’s images document candid moments on the dancefloor and beyond, celebrating the unique spirit of the club scene.

All I want for LGBTQIA+ rights is you

The diva’s diva, Mariah Carey, is set to headline Brighton Pride 2025, bringing her powerhouse vocals to Preston Park. Will she bring a new vision of love?

Follow the Aroe

Helm Gallery on North Road is hosting Aroe: From Then On, a retrospective that celebrates the legacy of Brighton graffiti icon Aroe. The exhibition charts Aroe’s artistic evolution from his early street art beginnings to his later acclaimed works, highlighting the impact of his distinctive style on urban culture in Brighton & Hove and beyond. The retrospective gets under the skin of a creative journey and Aroe’s significant influence on graffiti and contemporary art.

Do or die?

Lots of Brighton creative and cultural organisations and taking part in a unique event called Do Or Die? Why the future of OUR creative industries needs a better offer for young people.

An interactive ideas exchange, taking place at Worthing’s Assembly Rooms on 27th March - it will feature presentations, lightning talks and debate from young people, creative industry employers, venues and education projects looking at how to ensure Sussex young people are not priced out or excluded from building a creative life.

The event is a collaboration between always possible, The Social Society, Creative Alliance and Worthing Theatres & Museum - with many other contributors.

Tickets are free from here.

Lordy, lordy

FareShare Sussex & Surrey were hosted by Lord Bassam of Brighton at the House of Lords in a celebration of supporters, suppliers, and other charity partners. They reflected on their successes and looked ahead to future missions around how to make the most of food surplus.

Crowdfunding with a porpoise

The Sussex Dolphin Project would like a boat please.

Hot stuff

Sussex's first non-profit community sauna is getting lots of attention in Brighton. The Stanmer Sauna Garden, created by Bella Kirkus, aims to provide low-cost, accessible sauna sessions to people who might otherwise be put off. Inspired by Hackney Wick's community baths, the project offers a sliding scale fee system and benefits from the support of 60 volunteers. The sauna is also a creative hub where residents can make their own waterproof sauna hats. This innovative initiative is celebrated for boosting self-confidence and fostering inclusivity, truly creating magic in Sussex. Discover more

Getting in early

The East Brighton Health Hub is a new project designed to tackle health inequalities within the community. It offers a range of services — from primary care and mental health support to community health programmes. By prioritising early intervention and prevention, the hub is addressing the root causes of health disparities and empowering local residents with the knowledge to manage their own well-being. Discover more about the project here.

Menopause for thought

A new podcast project by Helena Jevons called Hot Flashes: Menopause Monologues puts forward a candid and witty exploration of menopause. Blending myth-busting with personal storytelling, the series narratives around menopause, performed by a whole cast of many-Brighton-based women. The discussion provides humour, insight, and solidarity for those experiencing menopause, or wanting to empathise more.

At the chalkface

The University of Brighton and Sussex Wildlife Trust have united to safeguard chalk grassland, a vital and biodiverse ecosystem. By combining academic research with practical conservation, they’re aiming to restore and protect rare habitats. The project involves engaging local communities around innovative management plans that will ensure long-term sustainability. Discover more about the project here.

Just another Seedy Sunday

Seedy Sunday is a community event organised by the Sussex Organic Gardening Association in partnership with local gardening enthusiasts. Hop over to Brighton Community Garden on Sunday, 1 March 2025, to swap seeds, participate in hands-on workshops, and learn sustainable gardening techniques. With a focus on boosting biodiversity, Seedy Sunday offers a unique opportunity for Sussex locals to nurture their green thumbs. Discover more here.