What we learned from our supporter survey
Earlier this year, we invited our supporters to tell us more about their experience of supporting Launchpad, what inspires them to stay involved, and how we can do even better. A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our survey. Your feedback has been incredibly valuable and will help shape how […]
Supporting rough sleepers through extreme weather in Reading
As temperatures rise and heat-health alerts come into effect, Reading Borough Council is taking proactive steps to support some of the community’s most vulnerable residents. The council’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), typically associated with freezing conditions, has been activated in response to the current heatwave highlighting that severe weather risks are not limited to […]
Summer celebration fun at our work and life skills centre
We were delighted to host a fantastic summer celebration at our Work and Life Skills Centre on June 16. It was a wonderful open event, giving all Launchpad service users a great opportunity to explore everything we have to offer. At the centre, we’re proud to offer a wide range of engaging and supportive activities, […]
Beautiful sunset evening of serenity supporting Launchpad
Hundreds of moments of mindfulness, community spirit and generosity came together on the longest day of the year as supporters gathered for our second annual Solstice Sunset Swim. The event, held at Dinton Pastures Activity Centre on Sunday, sold out, attracting supporters eager to celebrate the summer solstice while raising vital funds for people experiencing […]
New rights for people living in rented accommodation
The Renters’ Rights Act became law on May 1, 2026 and has brought the biggest change to renting in England in decades. It supports renters by abolishing Section 21 no fault evictions and introducing rolling tenancies where tenants can now leave at any time by giving at least two months’ notice. The new act limits […]
Join us on the Solstice for an evening swim
After a sold‑out first year, we are delighted to announce the return of the Solstice Sunset Swim on Sunday, 21 June 2026, taking place once again at Dinton Pastures Activity Centre. Held on the longest day of the year, this unique midsummer event invites the local community to slow down, switch off and come together […]
Allotment season has started – could you help?
Calling all companies who are looking to ditch the desk for a day and enjoy a morning or afternoon of team building all for a good cause! Now is a great time to book in for a session on our allotment where we grow a variety of fruit and vegetables for Readifood (Reading’s food bank) […]
Visit by Right Reverend Mary Gregory, Bishop of Reading
Su Hamblyn, Chief Executive of Launchpad welcomed the Right Reverend Mary Gregory, Bishop of Reading for a visit to our recently refurbished offices. During the visit, the bishop met members of the wider team, and was given a tour of our premises in Friar Street. This included our free drop-in service, which provides a welcoming […]
Homelessness in Reading
We’d like to explain Launchpad’s role in tackling homelessness in Reading – both for those who already know us, and for those who are new to our work – and to set this in the context of the wider local support system.
Launchpad welcomes Lord-Lieutenant of Berkshire
We were delighted to welcome the Lord‑Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire, Andrew Try Esq. to our Work and Life Skills Centre at 135 Cardiff Road, Reading on Wednesday, 11 March. The Lord‑Lieutenant was hosted by Launchpad Chief Executive Officer Su Hamblyn and Centre Manager Zoe Shawcroft, who gave him a tour of the […]