Latest news SUMMER 2026

OUR 5th HOUSE OPENED IN JUNE!

In June this year we finally opened our fifth house! For the first time we have opened a house in neighbouring Wokingham borough. We have been drawn there by the enthusiasm of Shinfield Community (Baptist) Church who had a vision right from the start to offer care and love to a  family in need. Their prayer has been realised in this lovely house which has been completely refurbished and furnished, and a single mother and her two children have been thrilled to move in. Ecumenical partnership is strong in Hope into Action Reading with Roman Catholic, Anglican and Baptist churches working together. 

Key Achievements in 2025/26

Churches: A new church partner! HOPE training delivered for the Roman Catholic Churches (May 2025), Shinfield Community Church and 'refreshers' in February 2026. 14 new volunteers have come on board. All tenants have befriender volunteers to come alongside and support them.

Tenants: A record 17 tenants housed including 8 move-ons and some fantastic outcomes (see below!)

Recruitment: A new Empowerment worker Jo joined December 2025

Houses: Improvements to all rpoperties including full refurbishments before opening our 2 newest homes, redecorating (thank you volunteers!) and a new bathroom.

Technology: Migration to a bespoke secure technology platform EMPOWER to improve our frontline work particularly around tenant support and property maintenance.

Increasing Our Reach: A move to an online referral system, the launch of a new website and more regular social media updates.

Tenant Outcomes in 2025/6

• 100% of tenants maintained their tenancy 

• 100% maintained abstinence or reduced their drug/alcohol use 

• 100% with previous custodial sentences did not return to prison

• 88% saw improvements in positive social relationships

• 71% found employment, attended training or volunteer regularly

• 71% engaged with faith and spirituality

• 75% of move-ons were positive to more permanent, appropriate and independent housing