We are delighted to announce that Reading Community Learning Centre (RCLC) has been awarded funding through Reading Borough Council’s Closing the Gap (CTG) grants programme, which is investing £4.02 million over the next three years to reduce inequalities across our town.

The programme is a key Council initiative, designed to create long-term positive change in people’s lives by supporting local charities and community organisations working with residents who need it most.

Our Role in Two Key Areas of Support

RCLC is proud to be part of two vital projects funded under CTG:

• Women’s Wellbeing Support – Working as part of the Integrated Women’s Wellbeing Partnership Consortium alongside Berkshire Women’s Aid, Utulivu Women’s Group, Get Berkshire Active, and Project Salama, we will deliver services that empower women at risk of poor health outcomes. Together, we will provide mental health and wellbeing support, domestic abuse advocacy, maternity guidance, health education, and opportunities for physical activity. These services will be offered through outreach, drop-ins, and online platforms, focusing on prevention, rapid response, and long-term recovery.
• Refugee Support – In partnership with Reading Refugee Support Group, RCLC will help deliver tailored services for refugees and asylum seekers in Reading. This includes support with social inclusion, advice, education, skills development, wellbeing, and access to local services.

Building a Fairer, Healthier Reading

The Council’s Closing the Gap project recognises the importance of a strong voluntary and community sector in tackling poverty, loneliness, debt, and health inequalities. With this new investment, we can continue our mission to support ethnically diverse, refugee, and migrant women in Reading—helping them gain confidence, independence, and improved wellbeing.

We are excited to work alongside our partners and the Council to make a meaningful difference to the lives of women, refugees, and families across our community.

Cllr Liz Terry, Leader of the Council, said:
“The money that has been awarded to local voluntary sector organisations provides the best support the Council can offer to provide the biggest benefit to residents and help tackle the inequalities which we know exist.”

At RCLC, we are proud to be part of this important initiative and remain committed to building a stronger, fairer Reading for everyone.