Together launch innovative new wellbeing service in Reading train station

Reading Wellbeing Platform: Support Hub is based in Reading Train Station and will be a welcoming space for individuals to meet with compassionate professionals who will connect them to vital services in Reading and Berkshire.

The Support Hub will provide prompt emotional support and initial assessments to people, focusing on safety and wellbeing with a reassuring and calming approach. The service is open over the weekend from Friday to Sunday from 1:30pm to 8:30pm offering practical assistance, guidance, and referrals to trusted organisations at a time when other statutory services may be closed. It is run in collaboration with Network Rail, Great Western Railway staff, and British Transport Police.

Reading Wellbeing Platform is a potential alternative to emergency services for people experiencing mental distress and aims to support people directly and reduce the need for them to rely on the NHS and local police services by linking with other services that may be more appropriate. The team at the Reading Wellbeing Platform aim to help people establish long-term care connections creating gateway to ongoing support. Individuals will be referred to trusted local partners, housing and financial guidance, and other mental health services in Reading and Berkshire.

The Hub is staffed by two trained mental health professionals as well as volunteers from partner organisations offering evidence-based interventions. Referrals for one-to-one mental health support can only come from the British Transport Police or Network Rail Staff. At all times, whilst the service is open, the team can provide advice and signposting to other services in the community that can support people’s mental wellbeing.

Reflecting on the pilot service Together’s Director of Operations and Quality at Together Emma Edwards commented:

“Reading Wellbeing Platform: Support Hub is a new way for us to reach people experiencing mental distress in a location that is convenient and where we can help people with an understanding and compassionate team that will help find support that is appropriate. We’re pleased to be further developing our service provision in the Reading and Berkshire area and to be able to work alongside more individuals and compliment our existing services in the area. We’re excited to continue our partnership with Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board and to collaborate with Network Rail, Great Western Railway and British Transport Police on this pioneering pilot project.”