Our news is collected from our network of members, and is updated regularly. We also present information and articles from other sources that might be relevant to your kind of group.
Have your say: Digital Inclusion Survey 2023
24 January 2023
As more and more services move online we need to understand why some residents aren’t accessing them this way, whether that’s because it’s a struggle to afford internet access, data or a device, such as a laptop or phone, they aren’t confident or they don’t feel safe online. We also want to understand what people can do online, whether that’s ordering food and gifts, online learning and job searching, or contacting friends and family or a healthcare professional.
£100,000 available to community groups to help prevent crime across Thames Valley
18 January 2023
The first of two rounds of the Community Fund in 2023 opened to applications on Monday 16 January. The Community fund, which is jointly managed by Thames Valley Police Chief Constable, John Campbell and Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, aims to put money that has been made following the sale of items seized from criminals, to worthy initiatives within the community. Funding is made available twice a year and organisations from across the force area are invited to apply.
Days out for only £2 single on the buses
12 January 2023
Passengers in Reading are now able to enjoy day trips to a variety of locations right across the region for just £2 for a single fare. The £2 single fare will be in place until 31 March 2023 and will be valid on all single journeys across the Reading Buses, Thames Valley Buses, Green Line 702/703, Newbury & District, Arriva, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel networks.
New grant for ABC to Read
12 January 2023
Reading Borough Council has awarded local reading charity ABC to Read a grant of £3,000 to recruit, train and support 10 new volunteers to give one-to-one mentoring to local children who are struggling to read! The grant will also be used to deliver workshops in Reading schools as well as training older students to mentor younger pupils.
Community-led research project launched
10 January 2023
Reading Voluntary Action is working in partnership with Slough CVS, the University of Reading and the British Science Association in a community led research pilot. Community led research can create change and bring attention to important issues that matter to your community or organisation. Our researchers would like to speak informally to the communities and community groups you represent to find out which local issues would benefit from some research.
Guest speakers at Reading libraries
16 December 2022
Reading Libraries has announced an exciting line up for its ‘Reading Libraries Telling Stories’ series, with a number of great storytellers lined up from early December into spring 2023. Guest storytellers to look forward to include: -Saturday 14 January 23: A ‘dad/grandad/male carer’ focussed session with Neil Grant -Saturday 11 February 23: Finnish-themed ‘Moomin’ storytelling and crafts session with local resident, Leena Vinkka -Saturday 11 March 23: A hand puppetry storytelling session with local resident, Naomi Pyle
Reading Mencap asks young people what they want
15 December 2022
Reading Mencap is designing a new service for young people with learning disabilities, which will provide exciting opportunities for those aged 18-25. The aim is to provide skills-based training and horticultural activities on a site known as The Hort at Bulmershe Allotments (RG6 1ET). Reading Mencap plans to transform the rundown, overgrown site into a practical, educational service for up to 50 young people a week, helping them develop skills to maximise their potential to achieve employment or voluntary work.
Become a Draughtbuster!
15 December 2022
Draughtbusters is a voluntary group that surveys homes for draughts and takes remedial action. The website www.draughtbusters.net gives all the advice needed to survey your own home and make changes, but the main thrust of the project is to provide the materials and trained labour to undertake the work, free of charge, for those in fuel poverty. Households are referred to Draughtbusters through Citizens Advice Bureau and Winterwatch, or might contact us through the website or through word of mouth.
Take care disposing of batteries
15 December 2022
A recent fire at the re3 Smallmead Recycling Centre in Island Road was a stark reminder of the dangers of throwing away batteries, Reading Borough Council has said. The council has urged residents not to bin batteries or small battery-operated products such as single-use vapes, as such items always need to be recycled separately to minimise the danger of fires.
Reading for Warm Homes launches its campaign
13 December 2022
With around six million people predicted to be in fuel poverty this winter campaigners are urging the government to implement common-sense solutions that will both lower skyrocketing energy bills and cut harmful carbon emissions. Additional financial support is urged for those struggling to afford to heat their homes to ensure people stay warm and well during the colder months. Campaigners gathered outside Reading Town Hall on Saturday 3 December as part of Warm This Winter, a UK-wide day of events pressuring ...