Supporting the ambitions of the Communities Vision
 Local teen takes on Gold Duke of Edinburgh
Meet Jack, 17, who is currently working towards his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Also known as the DofE, the youth programme for 14–24 year olds, helps young people build confidence, develop new skills and gain experiences that support future careers and education. From volunteering to physical activity and expeditions, it’s all about personal growth and trying something new.
Jack has already completed his Bronze award and is now taking on Gold. Along the way, he’s challenged himself, discovered new interests and made a real difference in his community.
For his volunteering, Jack worked with both older and younger people. He shared:
"I volunteered at a retirement community, talking to the residents and making tea, coffee etc. In my gold I worked with younger people just starting their DofE journey, imparting to them what I learnt from my expeditions."
He also discovered his love for climbing through the physical section.
Jack recommends other people should try the DofE and says it has shaped his outlook: "DofE is something that often doesn’t provide a tangible reward for completion. I have found that what you gain often shows itself way down the line, and you suddenly realise how the things you learnt from the time spent on DofE have changed you in small ways.”
 Safe Places scheme launches
Safe Places is returning to Wokingham Borough, helping residents feel more confident when out and about.
The council is relaunching Safe Places in partnership with Optalis Supported Employment Service and local businesses across the borough, creating a network of welcoming locations where people can go if they need support.
Participating shops and venues display a Safe Places sticker in their window, making them easy to spot. Inside, trained staff can offer a calm place to wait, give directions, or help contact a trusted person if someone is feeling lost, anxious or unsafe.
Fourteen shops and businesses across the borough have signed up to the scheme so far. More locations will be added on an ongoing basis.
The scheme is designed to support independence and build confidence, particularly for those who may need extra reassurance when out in the community. More businesses are signing up, helping create a safer, more inclusive borough for everyone.
 Students crowned national champions
Year 9 students from The Emmbrook School have achieved national success after being crowned Premier League Inspires Challenge champions.
Supported by Reading FC Community Trust, the team triumphed over 53 professional club programmes at the national finals held at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The students impressed judges with their creative warm-up shirt designs, which were worn by Reading FC’s first team ahead of their April match against Cardiff City. Their designs promoted confidence and body positivity, sharing a positive message with players and supporters alike.
The challenge is part of a Premier League initiative that uses sport, creativity and education to help young people build skills and confidence. Working with club partner Macron, the students saw their ideas brought to life.
This fantastic achievement highlights the power of sport to inspire young people and showcases the talent, teamwork and determination of students in Wokingham Borough.
 National Volunteers' Week - Get involved locally
The first week of June marks National Volunteers’ Week, a chance to thank volunteers, celebrate their impact and inspire more people to get involved.
Wokingham Volunteer Centre supports local charities to recruit volunteers and helps residents find the right role. From helping a child read and chatting to an isolated older person, to supporting community groups, sorting donations, driving to medical appointments or helping with shopping, there is something for everyone.
“It really does change people’s lives; both those who volunteer and those who are helped by volunteers," said Helena Badger, Volunteer Services Manager. "Volunteering can help you gain new skills, meet new people, test the water for a career change, allow you to give something back and help a cause you really believe in.”
Mary, a volunteer driver with the Earley Transport Scheme, added: “I didn’t realise how rewarding and fulfilling it would be. It is so much more than taking an elderly person to a vital appointment, it is a chance to listen to them and hear their incredible stories. It is invaluable for both of us!”
To get involved, visit the volunteer portal to view local opportunities or contact Wokingham Volunteer Centre by emailing volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk or call 0118 977 0749.
The Wokingham Volunteer Centre is holding a drop-in coffee morning on Tuesday 2 June from 10am to 12pm at its offices at the Charity and Community hub in Wokingham. If you're looking to volunteer, pop along for an informal chat.
 Carers Week: Events and support across the borough
Next week (8–14 June) is Carers Week, a national campaign recognising the vital contribution of unpaid carers and helping people access support. This year’s theme, Building Carer Friendly Communities, highlights the importance of ensuring carers feel seen, valued and supported.
In Wokingham Borough, thousands of residents provide care for a loved one, friend or neighbour. Many may not identify as carers, instead seeing themselves simply as family or friends, but support is available for anyone in this role.
A range of events will take place across the borough, including an online Health and Social Care webinar on Monday 8 June, plus drop-ins, social activities and information sessions throughout the week. These events offer opportunities to learn about carers’ rights, wellbeing and local services, as well as connect with others.
 Supporting students and families across the borough
Do you know someone currently taking their exams?
In Shinfield, Share has been helping students start the day with a healthy breakfast, giving them one less thing to worry about during a stressful time.
Alongside this support, Share provides food and essential items to around 2,000 residents every week across the borough.
At the School Green Centre, volunteers run a welcoming space where people can access food, support and practical advice, helping local households while reducing food waste. This work is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers and strong community spirit. Donations of everyday items such as ground filter coffee, UHT milk, hand wash, kitchen towels and tea bags are always appreciated and can be dropped off on Sundays.
Share also has locations in Arborfield, Finchampstead, Lower Earley, Winnersh, Wokingham and Woodley. Visit the website to see when and where the sites are open.
Thank you to everyone who supports this vital service and helps it continue to thrive.
 Celebrating 40 years of Woodley Library
Woodley Library marked its 40th anniversary with a community celebration at its current town centre site, reflecting on four decades of serving local residents. The library, which moved from the Verger’s Cottage in Church Road to its purpose-built home in 1986, welcomed visitors for a morning of cake, drinks and live music from Bandissimo.
The event highlighted the library’s role as a vital community hub, offering far more than book lending. Today, residents benefit from free IT access, study spaces, events for adults and children and support with reading, learning and digital skills.
Francesca from Woodley Library said: “Public libraries remain a vital community resource offering a safe shared space for residents. They play a crucial role in supporting literacy, lifelong learning and social inclusion.”
Celebrations also included special Storytime and Rhymetime sessions, bringing the community together to look back on shared memories and achievements.
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