Reading Mencap

We are seeking a new CEO to lead our organisation. This is a unique opportunity to shape our future, expand our reach & ensure we continue to deliver on our crucial mission to support people with learning disabilities in Reading. Visit readingmencap.org.uk/about-us/work-… for more info.

We're deeply concerned Government is pressing ahead with plans to reduce financial support for carers by £500 million, with 150,000 carers set to lose their benefits entitlements Help us #ProtectCarersBenefits by signing our letter to @Keir_Starmer today: go.carersuk.org/PM_letter?utm_…

We are calling for the Government to immediately reconsider their welfare reform proposals to #ProtectCarersBenefits Families who stand to lose PIP and Carer’s Allowance face losing £8,000 a year. ✍️Sign our open letter to the Prime Minister today: go.carersuk.org/PM_letter?utm_…

Advocacy in action! Members of our Hear our Voice group have written to MP @MattRodda expressing their concerns about the Govt’s proposed cuts to benefits. As adults with learning disabilities they're rightly worried about the impact these changes could have on their daily lives.

We’re delighted to have teamed up with gas distribution network @SGNgas to offer free energy advice for people with learning disabilities. Our new project will offer crucial guidance on making energy safer and more affordable for everyone. Read more: shorturl.at/tE8rp

A swim event for children & adults (plus their families) who live with any kind of disability is being held on 17 May at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre from 6.30-7.30pm. Loddon Valley Leisure Centre is fully accessible. £1.50 per person. Register at: faceeverything-x.co.uk/swim-events

Walk a Mile in Our Shoes is back for 2025! Join us for our 2nd 1-mile walk in Forbury Gardens, Reading on Weds 18 June from 12 noon. Everyone welcome. £5 entry fee (free for carers & Reading Mencap members) sign up now at forms.office.com/e/UrV8H9Uy6T See you there!

If you’re balancing work and care, you can now earn £196 per week without losing your Carer’s Allowance. Find out more here: gov.uk/carers-allowan…

From today the earnings limit for Carer’s Allowance will increase from £151 to £196 per week. Our volunteer Stephanie featured on @BBCBreakfast this morning to talk about this change and how it will impact carers across the UK bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episod… (Timestamp: 2h 34m)

Right now, the government is consulting on plans to slash disability benefits. And they want to know what disabled people think. This is a crucial opportunity to make our voices heard loud and clear 📣 Respond to the consultation ⬇️ campaigns.scope.org.uk/page/169057/ac…

We urgently need to see a fundamental review of Carer's Allowance. This case once again demonstrates why we need to re-assess the financial support provided to carers in a variety of situations. theguardian.com/society/2025/f…

Huge thanks to the @ArnoldClark Community Fund for a grant for our 4ME Activities Service. The grant will help us fund a range of engaging physical activities, including dance, yoga and basketball, giving our members the opportunity to stay active. Thank you!

#JustOneThing #21 Could you set up Alexa/Google Assistant for someone who finds tech difficult but could benefit? Maybe think about someone who would love to listen an audio book, reminder for meds, play fav radio or tell them day’s headlines. #25Tips2025 rdguk.info/JustOneThing_5…

In honour of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch this weekend, members of our 4ME Activities Service have been busy crafting their favourite feathered friends. Keep your eyes peeled! rspb.org.uk/whats-happenin…

Cancer is just one example of a health condition where the 1.3 million people with a learning disability in England are at a disadvantage because the NHS and social care system fail to meet their needs. Everyone deserves equal cancer care @macmillancancer brnw.ch/21wQ8Z3

Come and have a coffee with other parent carers and meet Louise Mole, Manager of Reading Borough Council's Learning Disabilities and Autism team. Hosted by Reading Families Forum on 6 Feb at RISC. To book, email fran@readingfamiliesforum.co.uk

@ReadingCouncil Great initiative!

#JustOneThing 25 tips 2025 #1 Why not do a Paddington tour im-paw-tent part of our history: 🐻 Paddington statue town 🐻 Michael Bond went to school #RDGUK lived Winser Dr Southcote 1939-1958 🐻 Child evacuees arriving Reading Station inspired Paddington rdguk.info/JustOneThing25…

We welcomed in the New Year by going to the Ball! Members of our 4ME Activities Service enjoyed a trip to see Cinderella at the thanks to funding from the @J_S_Foundation. It was fabulous!

A very Merry Christmas from everyone at Reading Mencap. Our services are now closed and will reopen on Thursday 2 January.

@RightsReading Well done to you all!

Our small team of caseworkers have worked tirelessly this year to support the most vulnerable.