Social care is under pressure, and with the recent announcement that care companies will no longer be able to recruit from abroad, it's helpful to hear straight from the Director of a care company. Shahid Younis runs SureCare, a home care company, and talks about the opportunities and challenges for the future of care in the UK.

Woodley Business Club is open to all local business owners who want to collaborate, learn skills and find a supportive network. Membership is free and business owners are based nearby in Twyford, Earley and Bracknell, as well as Woodley. Debbie Winyard runs her hypnotherapy business in Earley and explains the difference she's seen Woodley Business Club make for its members.

Loneliness is a growing problem in society. The Link Visiting Scheme arranges volunteers to befriend older people and has been given the Queen's Award in recognition of their services. Marjie Walker was a nurse before she took over as CEO of the charity in 2007. She has grown it from a tiny charity to a medium sized charity and growing.

The Link Visiting Scheme

Sara Hughes is Co-Director of the Samaritans branch for Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead. She describes the calls that have stayed with her, what drove her to the role and the support volunteers get. Samaritans is there for people who simply need to talk to someone.

Matthew Whitelock has been a highly sought after drama coach for 30 years. He has seen first-hand how drama helps young people's mental health and the struggles of the performing arts industry to survive. Positive and always working on a project, he also shares his experience of having been Chair of the Board for the Pride of Reading Awards and why they matter so much to him. He is currently working on The Man, a play at South Street Arts Centre in Reading, 3rd and 4th July 2025. Tickets available now.

Why have Hindus integrated so well in the UK? How is Hindu Swayamsevek Sangh (HSS) helping the local community? Loosely translated to 'Hindu Volunteer Group', it's an international organisation which include branches in Berkshire, with its members dedicated to personal growth and service to others. Tushar Shah from the Reading branch tells us all.

More information about HSS: Namaste... - HSS UK | Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh UK

Zoe tells us about the issues and pressures facing LGBT people. Thames Valley Positive Support is based in Slough and supports those living with HIV. They run an award nominated podcast called The HIV Podcast. Zoe helps run the BeYou service which supports local LGBT people facing issues such as threat of homelessness from their families and domestic abuse.TVPS

Mick shares the history of Ukraine, how local people can help Ukrainians and the Centre's work to support refugees.

What is happening with the ownership at Reading FC? What are fans feeling? Will the potential new Football Regulator help? Matthew Batten, the Deputy Chairman of Supporters Trust at Reading, explains all.

Trustee, Miles Evans, runs through how we can balance our need for more housing and infrastructure with care for nature and the environment. If you're a YIMBY who cares about wildlife, this is a must listen.