Wokingham Borough Connect
 Events for Neurodiversity Celebration Week
There’s a series of events happening in Wokingham Borough, and beyond, for Neurodiversity Celebration Week (16 to 20 March)
Whether you’re looking to learn more about neurodivergent experiences, connect with others, or explore how different neurotypes bring unique strengths to our communities, workplaces and families, there’s something for everyone.
From meet ups, to practical workshops, there’s something for everyone. Local events include:
Here are a few of the many non-local online events available, see the full calendar event for more:
For a full list of online and local events, check our news pages. With multiple events on each day, be sure to take a look.
Could you be part of the Residents Panel?
Last month, we started the Sparks Community Award. This award gives money to small projects that help adults who may need extra support. This could be because of a disability, a health condition, or caring for someone.
Our aim is to help people feel more connected and included in their communities. A key part of the Sparks Community Award is the Residents' Panel, a group of local residents who help with funding decisions.
This panel brings together individuals who truly understand their communities, know what is missing, and can help decide what is most needed. We believe this will help funding go to projects that make a real difference.
We still have a few space left on the Residents’ Panel. If you care about your community and want to help shape these important decisions, we'd love to hear from you.
Your ideas and local knowledge could make a big difference. If you’re interested in joining, or would like a bit more information, just send us a message.
 Finding home at Bluebell House: Josie's story
One of Social Care Future's core principles is "I can live in a place I call home" - and Josie's story shows what that looks like in practice.
When Josie moved into Bluebell House at 100 years old, her family worried she wouldn't settle after years of living independently. Like many families, they shared concerns about care homes being quiet, stuffy and clinical places.
What they found was very different.
Josie's granddaughter Carol describes Bluebell House as "a place filled with warmth, laughter and energy." She said: "Every time we visit, we feel like we're visiting Nan at home, not somewhere she simply needs to be to stay safe. The team create so much more for her."
Staff greet Josie by name and personalise her care, even when she can't recall theirs. "We rarely see her in her room," Carol reflects. "She is busy elsewhere, watching what is happening, chatting or laughing with the staff."
Josie's verdict? "The people here are friendly. We can have a laugh together and that's important."
This story demonstrates the Social Care Future vision in action - partners like Optalis creating spaces where people truly feel at home, not just safe.
 Question Corner
Welcome to Question Corner!
The Inclusive Design Group has begun work and is starting their first consultation project. They will be looking at our pavements and streets – the walking and wheeling routes people use every day across the borough and be joined by colleagues from our transport team.
Now time for our question!
"For you, what causes the biggest issue when travelling on pavements?"
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