HIGH STREETS ENGAGEMENT AND SUPPORT
Free Business Support for Independent Businesses in Wealden
Practical workshops and hands-on support for retailers, hospitality and customer-facing businesses across Wealden District.
We’ll be visiting your high street to get to know local businesses and understand what support is most needed, then tailoring a series of workshops and resources around your feedback.
The programme is designed to help you step back, refocus and build a stronger, more confident business in 2026, with practical guidance from people who understand the realities of running an independent business.
Independent retailers
Hospitality businesses
Market traders
Customer-facing service businesses
Based in Wealden District, East Sussex including Uckfield, Heathfield, Hailsham, Crowborough and Polegate
Who This Is For
You’ll get practical support and ideas covering:
planning ahead to save time, money and energy
attracting the right customers
using social media with confidence (without it taking over your life)
creating simple, on-brand graphics using free tools like Canva
improving shop windows and in-store experience
taking better photos using your phone
setting realistic goals, staying motivated
building online presence
Practical workshops and hands-on support
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Practical workshops and hands-on support 〰️
What’s included? (Yes, it’s all FREE)
A series of 6 practical workshops
Support shaped by real high-street experience
Guidance that is friendly, jargon-free and achievable
Sessions informed by visits to local high streets and conversations with businesses
Workshop topics include:
Branding & Digital Marketing
Goals & Planning
Understanding Your Ideal Customer
Canva for Social Media
Social Media, AI & Your Digital Shopfront
Using your phone & create Instagrammable windows
You’ll leave each session with tools and ideas you can use straight away.
Practical workshops created specifically for retailers
Who are The High Street Experts?
We’re Ophelia and Wendy, founders of The High Street Experts. Between us, we have over 35 years of independent retail and small business experience, and we continue to run our own businesses alongside this work. We support high streets, villages and market towns across the UK with practical, people-first business support.
Our approach is friendly, practical and rooted in real high-street experience, helping businesses embrace digital tools without the overwhelm.
This programme is funded by HM Government and the partnership of East Sussex County Council, East Sussex Growth Hub and Wealden District Council. It is delivered by The High Street Experts.