Reading Borough Council has allocated £150,000 in Better Care Fund grants to support the physical and mental health of local residents through ten community-based projects. The funding aims to empower people to remain independent and well while providing timely intervention to prevent long-term health issues.
One of the successful projects, the Parish Nurse initiative at Reading Gateway Church in Whitley, has already made a significant impact. Since receiving funding in 2024, the project has assisted hundreds of residents in accessing medical, practical, and emotional support. Success stories include a resident receiving home equipment for personal care, a cardiac condition diagnosed early to prevent hospitalization, and a family affected by domestic violence receiving help to establish a safe home while learning new skills. Early intervention remains central to the programme, ensuring support is provided before issues escalate.
Councillor Rachel Eden, Lead Councillor for Education and Public Health, emphasized the importance of community-based support: “Staying well and getting help early is vital for residents, and Reading is fortunate to have so many amazing community and charity organizations who know how to work with and are trusted by our residents. I’m delighted that the council is able to allocate this funding to support them in helping residents who may not know they need assistance or are unsure where to find it. This funding will help people stay mentally and physically well, leading to living independently in their own homes and communities.”
The funding will benefit a diverse range of initiatives. The Alliance for Cohesion and Racial Equality (ACRE) teaches elderly residents essential IT skills to access online GP services, promotes safe internet use, and offers sewing and health workshops to reduce isolation. Berkshire Vision will expand its outreach services for visually impaired adults, while Get Berkshire Active will run seated wellbeing sessions to help older adults and people with long-term conditions stay active and socially connected.
Launchpad Reading offers a holistic wellbeing programme for individuals experiencing homelessness, providing a safe, inclusive environment with access to physical, mental, and social health activities. Mustard Tree supports disadvantaged women, guiding them to addiction and health services. Parenting Special Children provides targeted support for carers of SEND children in economically deprived areas to prevent health crises.
Project Salama runs a 12-month peer-led programme to support people affected by trauma, abuse, migration, and marginalization, combining therapeutic group sessions with community outreach to foster resilience. Reading Gateway Church’s Parish Nurse initiative addresses loneliness, mental health issues, and general health advice, connecting residents to additional support where needed. Reading Islamic Cultural Centre offers culturally sensitive women-only fitness classes, including swimming and exercise, to help reduce cardiovascular and other health risks. Finally, Reading Mencap provides a Learning Disability Family Health Adviser service, offering information, advice, and practical support to help clients maintain and improve their physical and mental health.
Through these funded projects, Reading Borough Council continues to demonstrate its commitment to early intervention and community-led support, ensuring residents have access to the care and guidance they need to lead healthy, independent lives.
