Top 10 Best Nonprofits in Adur

The Heart of Adur's Community

Behind Adur's beaches, harbour and downland lies a remarkable network of charities, volunteers and community organisations. These nonprofits feed families, support disabled children, rescue people at sea, care for the dying, preserve local heritage and protect precious green spaces. Many rely heavily on volunteers and local donations, and together they form the social backbone of Shoreham-by-Sea, Lancing, Southwick, Sompting and Fishersgate.

The ten nonprofits below have been selected for their impact, reach and the strong support they receive from local residents. Whether you are looking to volunteer, donate or seek help, these organisations are an excellent place to start.

1. Adur Voluntary Action

Adur Voluntary Action is the central support charity for the district's voluntary and community sector. Based in Lancing and Shoreham, it helps local groups with funding advice, governance, training and volunteer recruitment. By strengthening smaller organisations, AVA multiplies the impact of community action across Adur and connects residents with meaningful volunteering opportunities.

2. Shoreham and Adur Community Foodbank

The Shoreham and Adur Community Foodbank provides emergency food parcels to individuals and families facing hardship. Run largely by volunteers and supported by donations from residents, schools, churches and businesses, it plays a vital role in tackling food poverty and signposting people to further support.

3. Lancing and Sompting Churches Foodbank

The Lancing and Sompting Churches Foodbank brings together local churches to provide food and practical support to people in crisis in the western part of the district. Its community-based approach ensures help is accessible close to home, delivered with dignity and compassion.

4. Adur Special Needs Project

The Adur Special Needs Project offers play schemes, activities and respite for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Its inclusive programmes give young people opportunities to make friends and build confidence, while providing much-needed breaks for parents and carers.

5. RNLI Shoreham Harbour Lifeboat Station

The RNLI's Shoreham Harbour Lifeboat Station has a long and proud history of saving lives at sea. Its volunteer crews respond to emergencies along the coast at any hour and in any weather, supported by fundraisers and shore crew. The station is also a focal point for water safety education in the community.

6. Ropetackle Arts Centre

Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham-by-Sea is a community arts venue run with the support of a dedicated team of volunteers. It hosts live music, comedy, theatre, film and workshops, enriching cultural life in Adur and providing a welcoming space for people of all ages.

7. Marlipins Museum

Marlipins Museum, run by the Sussex Archaeological Society, occupies one of Shoreham's oldest buildings on the High Street. It tells the story of the town's maritime history, local archaeology and community life, preserving heritage for residents and visitors alike.

8. Friends of Lancing Ring

Friends of Lancing Ring is a volunteer group that helps care for Lancing Ring Local Nature Reserve, an area of chalk grassland, woodland and ponds on the edge of the South Downs. Volunteers carry out conservation tasks, wildlife surveys and community events that protect this treasured green space.

9. St Barnabas House

St Barnabas House is the hospice serving Worthing, Adur and the surrounding area. It provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care in its hospice and in people's homes, along with support for families. Its charity shops across the area are a familiar sight and an essential source of funding.

10. Turning Tides

Turning Tides is a leading West Sussex homelessness charity that supports people across Adur and neighbouring districts. It provides accommodation, outreach and specialist support to help people move away from homelessness and rebuild their lives.

Trends in the Nonprofit Sector

Rising living costs have placed unprecedented demand on charities, especially foodbanks, advice services and mental health support. Many Adur organisations have adapted by offering holistic help, combining emergency support with advice on debt, benefits and employment. Partnerships between charities, councils and businesses are becoming more common, pooling resources to tackle complex challenges.

Digital transformation is another significant trend. Online fundraising, social media campaigns and digital volunteering platforms help small charities reach new supporters. At the same time, community-led initiatives such as Men in Sheds, repair cafes and youth projects like Electric Storm Youth show the power of grassroots action in addressing loneliness, sustainability and opportunity.

How You Can Get Involved

There are many ways to support Adur's nonprofits. Volunteering is perhaps the most valuable, whether helping at a foodbank, crewing a lifeboat, stewarding events at Ropetackle or joining conservation days at Lancing Ring. Regular donations, even small amounts, provide charities with predictable income for planning services. Businesses can support through employee volunteering, sponsorship, payroll giving and donating goods or expertise.

Shopping at local charity shops, attending fundraising events and simply spreading the word about local causes all make a difference. Adur Voluntary Action is a helpful starting point for anyone wanting to find the right opportunity.

Conclusion

Adur's nonprofits demonstrate the generosity and resilience of the district's communities. From foodbanks and hospices to lifeboat crews, arts centres and nature conservation groups, these organisations improve countless lives every year. Supporting them through time, money or advocacy helps ensure that Shoreham, Lancing, Southwick and Sompting remain caring, vibrant places to live.