Residents of Reading’s Kennet Island housing development recently met with The Mayor of Reading and representatives from local businesses and community organisations at an event organised by Thames Valley Housing (TVH).

The event was set up with the aim of bringing the community together and making residents aware of employment, leisure and wellbeing services that are available to them locally.

Councillor Rose Williams, The Mayor of Reading, said: “I was delighted to meet with the residents of Kennet Island last week. The turnout on the day was fantastic, and it was great to see members of the local community coming together to take part in a range of activities and being able to find out more about some of the great services that are on offer to them in the Reading area.”

TVH worked in partnership with Sovereign Housing, who also manage homes on the site, as well as local organisations to deliver the event. The Rock Academy Foundation, who were recently funded by TVH’s Community Chest initiative and have created a bespoke music production programme for Kennet Island residents were on hand to run a demo session, along with SmartWorks, who provide unemployed women in the local area with interview coaching, clothing and styling advice for the workplace.

Residents also had the chance to speak to their repairs contractor Axis, along with their Housing, Wellbeing and Revenues Officers. There was also the opportunity to create customised mobile phone cases with local business Yawning Hippo, whilst Reading Football Club were also present to explain more about their community football sessions. Food and refreshments were kindly provided by Hilton Hotels and the local ice cream van.

Ilona, a resident of Kennet Island, said: “I really liked that we could have this community event in the summer holidays. My kids had a great time and it was nice that The Mayor came along.”

Mickey, a young resident, added: “I liked the games and ice cream!”

ENDS

Photo credit: Anne-Marie Briscombe