Local charities and organisations receive funding to benefit the lives of Woodley residents
At its April Strategy & Resources Committee Meeting, Woodley Town Council awarded a series of Community Grants to local organisations whose work supports the wellbeing, health, and culture of Woodley residents. These grants, each up to £350, are part of the Council’s ongoing effort to support community life in Woodley.
Empowering Young Minds: Life Education Wessex & Thames Valley
A £310 grant was awarded to Life Education Wessex & Thames Valley (LEW&TV) to deliver vital health and drug prevention workshops to nearly 500 children at Highwood Primary School. The charity, which has been active since 1998, brings early intervention education into schools across the Thames Valley and beyond.
“We would like to thank Woodley Town Council for their grant. This support from Woodley Town Council helps us provide children with the knowledge and confidence to make healthy choices, equipping them for life’s challenges,” said a LEW&TV spokesperson. “The workshops aim to tackle issues like obesity, mental health, and substance misuse – helping build safer, healthier communities.”
Driven By Kindness: Woodley Volunteer Centre
A £350 grant was awarded to Woodley Volunteer Centre to help recruit more volunteer drivers through local advertising. Since 1982, the centre has provided essential transport services for elderly and disabled residents needing to attend medical appointments.
“With around 120 trips per month and a growing client base, we’re always in need of more drivers,” said the centre’s co-ordinator, Karen Todd. “The funding allows us to reach new volunteers – some of whom we’ve already welcomed thanks to these ads.”
The charity also provides one-to-one support, accompanying clients to hospital departments and waiting with them through appointments. The team will be available to talk to prospective volunteers at the Council’s Annual Town Meeting on 23 May, 7pm at the Oakwood Centre.
Upgrading Member Facilities: Woodley Bowling Club
Woodley Bowling Club received a £350 grant to improve its clubhouse insulation and fit an insulated water tank jacket. The club, founded in 1964 and entirely self-funded, serves as a year-round hub for local bowlers and social gatherings.
“This grant helps us save on energy bills and opens up the clubhouse for more winter use,” said Hon Treasurer Stephen Treeves. “Our members, 90% of whom live in Woodley, benefit directly from these improvements. We’re always happy to welcome new members – our next Open Day is on 10 May, from 2–5pm at Woodford Park.”
Celebrating Youth Talent: Woodley Festival of Music & Arts
A further £350 was awarded to the Woodley Festival of Music & Arts, which celebrated its 55th year in March. The festival welcomed nearly 2,000 young performers across five categories: Choral, Vocal, Instrumental, Pianoforte, and Speech & Drama.
“The council’s grant helps us hire professional adjudicators, pianos, and venues, giving young people an incredible opportunity to perform publicly and grow in confidence,” said Co-Chair Fiona Fisher. “We were also thrilled to welcome the Town Mayor and Deputy Mayor this year to see our talented participants in action.”
Continued Support for Woodley’s Community
These grants are just one way in which Woodley Town Council supports Woodley’s thriving community. Grants of up to £350 are available to Woodley-based groups that provide services, events, or facilities benefiting local residents. Applications are open for one-off costs including equipment, building improvements, or youth group participation in regional or national events.
For more information about how to apply, please visit the Grants Section on our website.