Reading Wellbeing Platform: Support Hub

Services & Projects Oversight Manager: André Silva

Head of Regional Operations: Gianluca Zucchelli

Reading Wellbeing Platform: Support Hub is an innovative new service based at Reading Train Station. The hub provides a safe, welcoming space for individuals experiencing mental distress, offering compassionate support and connecting them to vital services in Reading and Berkshire.

What We Offer

The Support Hub:

• Provides Immediate Support:
  We offer prompt emotional support and initial assessments, focusing on safety and wellbeing with compassionate, calming approaches. While not a 24/7 service, we offer practical assistance, guidance, and referrals to trusted organisations.
• Offer an Appropriate Alternative to Emergency Services for People Experiencing Mental Distress:
  Operating at Reading Station, we work alongside Network Rail, GWR staff, and British Transport Police to support individuals experiencing mental distress. By providing accessible alternatives to A&E and emergency services, we aim to support people directly and reduce the need for them to rely on the NHS and local police services.
• Enable Long-Term Care Connections:
  The Hub acts as a gateway to ongoing support, referring individuals to trusted local partners, housing and financial guidance, and other mental health services in Reading and Berkshire.

Opening Times and How to Find Us

Timely Support
Operating during high-demand periods when community and GP services are unavailable:

• Hours: Friday to Sunday, 1:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Location: Reading Station – Community Space (Brunel Arcade)

Who We Are

The Hub is staffed by:

• Two trained mental health professionals.
• Volunteers from partner organisations offering evidence-based interventions.

Referrals

Referrals to Reading Wellbeing Platform Support Hub for one to one mental health support can only come from the British Transport Police or Network Rail Staff. This part of the service is provided for people experiencing mental distress who station staff refer to us.

At all times while open the service can provide advice and signposting to other services in the community that can support people’s mental wellbeing. We connect individuals with resources such as:

• Housing guidance
• Financial advice
• Mental health services

Meet Our Partners

In parentship with:

• Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board – BHFT (NHS)
• Network Rail and GWR
• British Transport Police

This project is sponsored by:

• IKEA
• Tesco

Resources

• Reading Wellbeing Hub: Support Platform Leaflet
• Berkshire & Reading Help in a Crisis Lealfet