We’re pleased to share that we have been awarded funding from Reading Borough Council’s Small Grant Fund. We received £2,466.00 in March 2025 and are now halfway through our programme of Peer Support Groups made possible by this funding.
Thanks to Reading Borough Council, we are continuing to build a community of support for local people with mental health issues. We are able to cover our insurance and room hire costs, and also provide free refreshments at our meetings and free drinks at our coffee mornings for anyone in financial need.
So far, we have held 26 coffee mornings at Reading Biscuit Factory, 6 evening meetings at the Reading International Solidarity Centre, and 10 online meetings for those who are unable to travel to the town centre. Over the last 6 months we have supported 52 individuals.
Depression Xpression is a peer support group founded in 2014 for people with depression and other mental health issues. It runs monthly evening meetings in Reading and Wokingham and a drop-in coffee morning every Friday in Reading. There are also regular online support groups for those unable to attend in-person meetings.
Meetings are completely free of charge and everyone is welcome. Activities include speakers, workshops and Ted talks on subjects surrounding depression and anxiety. There is also space to chat over refreshments and meet new friends. The group aims to provide a safe and confidential environment where everyone is listened to and treated with respect.
For more information about Reading Borough Council Small Grants Fund, please visit: https://www.reading.gov.uk/about-reading/voluntary-and-community-support/funding/small-grants-fund