Welcome to Berkshire’s Vital Signs, part of a major new ... · community philanthropists should...

Berkshire’s

www.berkshirecf.org/vitalsigns

Welcome to Berkshire’s Vital Signs, part of a major new project for the Berkshire Community Foundation. Our intention is that Vital Signs will inform the development of effective community philanthropy in our area by providing a ‘health check’ on key local issues informed both by national statistics and local knowledge and experience.

This Vital Signs report provides the data that will inform Berkshire Community Foundation’s activities and impact and:

• reports on the vitality of Berkshire’s communities using a range of nationally gathered statistics and evidence from local experts

• identifies the priority issues that present the most significant challenges and opportunities for change

• describes how civil society organisations, i.e. charities, community groups and social enterprises – are involved in addressing identified priorities

• suggests how community philanthropy can best respond

Berkshire’s Vital Signs is not designed to be the “final word” on the issues it addresses. Importantly we now need to know what people, businesses, public bodies and local groups think about the evidence and priorities; where they think Berkshire is doing well and where they want charitable efforts by donors and civil society groups to be focussed for most effect.

Publication of Berkshire’s Vital Signs is just the beginning of an on-going process of discussion. We will be working hard to address our community’s vital issues by applying philanthropic resources to vital projects and are aiming to report our progress towards addressing these issues in future Vital Signs reports.

Please read it, share it and then let us know what you think by joining us in the conversation.

We look forward to hearing from you

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861,900 the population of Berkshire

£554,000 the total of Berkshire community Foundation grants in 2012

20% Berkshire has areas in the top 20% of Uk deprivation, but scores consistently well in quality of life surveys

Vital Signs Theme grade

Work and local economy B

getting Started c

The gap between rich and poor D

Housing and homelessness D

Safety and crime D

Learning c

arts and culture B

Strong communities B

environment D

Health and wellbeing B

Local Themes for Berkshire:

civil Society Organisations D

Young People D

This report shows how we think Berkshire is doing in relation to twelve key themes. The grades indicate priorities for action. They are based partly on how we are doing in relation to the Uk, but also on our assessment of the local situation.

executive SummaryBerkshire has many positive aspects; beautiful countryside, vibrant businesses and scores highly on measures of well-being. The richness of its history is reflected in an enviable array of heritage sites including some of the most striking historical buildings in the Uk.

Much of the county displays a good overall quality of life. crime rates, such as youth offending and re-offending, are low, together with infant mortality, teenage conceptions and suicides. In recent decades, Berkshire’s economy has been shaped by some of the most vibrant businesses in the country and ‘The Place Survey’ also shows high levels of satisfaction amongst residents.

The gaP BeTWeen riCh and POOrTaking county-wide statistics and indicators at their face value, it would be easy to conclude that Berkshire was doing well. In many instances, this is actually true and should be celebrated. However, in other areas, county-wide statistics mask strong variations in the fortunes and experience of people in neighbouring urban and rural areas across the county.

This stark inequality is by far the most challenging conclusion of this research and proves that local data should always be checked rather than relying on county-wide data only. Local data reveals that in relation to all 12 Vital Signs themes, there are examples of significant deprivation in parts of Reading, Slough, Maidenhead and Newbury.

In some cases the levels of deprivation in specific neighbourhoods within Berkshire equals, or exceeds, those in the most challenged wards in the country. The ‘gap between the Rich and Poor’ section of this report identifies a number of almost exclusively urban wards as performing badly against all seven Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD); employment; income; child poverty; health; education, older people’s poverty and crime.

SuB regiOn rePOrT Card – COmPariSOnS TO naTiOnaL

BerkshireBracknell Forest Reading Slough

West Berkshire

Windsor & Maidenhead Wokingham

economy

economic scale B B a a a B B

Productivity a a a a a a a

economic change c D a D e a D

Industrial structure a a a a a a a

Business & enterprise a c a a a a B

Skills & qualifications a B c e a a a

Labour market a a c D a a a

Society

knowledge workers a B B D B a a

Prosperity a a B D a a a

Deprivation a a D D a a a

Inequality a B D B B B a

Health a B c c a B a

crime D B e e c D a

environment

Housing affordability D D D c e e D

Floorspace change c c D c a D B

connectivity B B a a D B B

Services a B B c B a a

amenities B c a a D B c

Natural environment D D e e B D D

How is Berkshire doing?

Source – Local Futures

ViTaL SignS gradeS – WhaT They mean

a Theme grade

a

Priority grade

grades are used within Berkshire’s Vital Signs report to give an indication of how urgently we think action needs to be taken in relation to a theme, or priority. The grades are awarded in part on the basis of how the area is doing relative to the rest of the Uk. However we also take into account three other factors in awarding grades, namely:

• Our local research and knowledge into particular issues affecting Berkshire

• The views of our stakeholders (donors, grantees, partner organisations)

• The significant differences between affluence and deprivation that exist between wards which can only be truly understood by looking at ward level rather than Unitary authority.

as people become involved in Vital Signs we expect to increase our knowledge about what is happening in Berkshire, and what local people regard as important. The grades will be changed to reflect this learning.

The table below summarises what each of our grades means:

a everything is great. Let’s keep things that way!

B Things are going well, but we can make them better

C The situation is Ok, but could be improved

d Things aren’t going very well. We should take action as soon as possible

e Things are going very badly. We must act now!

urBan dePriVaTiOn and ruraL iSOLaTiOnWhile a number Berkshire’s residents feel a strong sense of community, many do not. Social isolation is a considerable concern which is only likely to worsen as population ageing continues to increase the number of vulnerable people within society.

Many of Berkshire’s young people fare well in comparison to their peers elsewhere, however this merely masks the degree of urban deprivation and rural isolation within some areas of the county – particularly within Slough, Reading and West Berkshire.

education is a significant issue in some areas, especially urban areas suffering multiple deprivations. Urgent cross-sector action is required to re-engage young people, particularly those who are not in education, employment or training (NeeTs).

Disadvantage in Berkshire is not an exclusively urban phenomenon. a number of problems can be identified as particularly significant in rural areas of the county, such as:

• lack of access to services, opportunities, amenities and subsequent social isolation exacerbated by poor public transport

• poor broadband connectivity that affects the viability of businesses and limits access to new forms of service provision and social connectivity

• poor housing in some areas, including no central heating (which is responsible for high levels of fuel poverty)

hOuSing, Crime and diSaBiLiTyHousing and homelessness is particularly complicated in Berkshire. affordability and availability of housing is a serious issue, as the county is one of the most expensive areas of the Uk in which to live.

While the general picture across Berkshire is mixed in relation to crime and anti-social behaviour, problems persist, particularly in the more deprived urban areas. civil society organisations can play a key role in diverting young people from crime and anti-social behaviour and support improvement in this area.

There are areas of significant need for people with disabilities, including learning difficulties and/or mental health issues across the county, together with vulnerable communities who need the support services that civil society organisations can help provide.

The rOLe OF CiViL SOCieTy OrganiSaTiOnSMost civil society organisations are struggling due to the impact of public spending cuts, and while they cannot bridge the increasing funding gap, they may be able to help some organisations adapt to change.

The sustaining of crucial existing services makes much more sense than restarting new projects or services that have ceased, while retaining staff also allows organisations to more easily rebuild when the economy improves.

civil society has lost a significant amount of strategic grant funding. It is therefore more important than ever for community philanthropists to act together, and to take a more strategic, long-term view.

Strategic longer-term funding will support interventions with a more sustainable impact, possibly working in partnership around a specific issue.

Sub regional Scorecard

The Local Futures audit draws on quantitative data which helps to paint a picture of life across the six unitary authority areas. The findings are summarised opposite. The scorecard uses an ‘a’ to ‘e’ scale to provide a high level analysis of Berkshire across a range of economic, social and environmental indicators, where ‘a’ places the sub region in the top 20% of 53 British sub regions, and ‘e’ places the sub region in the bottom 20% (the performance of the six Berkshire unitary authorities is compared to 408 Local authority Districts nationally).

Vital Statistics

how we are doing

The Wokingham Job Support centre is a local charity that provides assistance, expertise and resources to people seeking employment.

On-site facilities provide job hunters with everything they need to apply for jobs, including newspapers, computers, internet access, telephones, fax machines, photocopiers, and even stationery. In addition, their team of trained volunteers are on hand to provide help and advice, guiding potential employees through the search and application process. These advisers have a broad variety of skill sets, with a range of experience within their respective fields.

The centre also runs a variety of workshops to help applicants hone important skills, such as cV preparation and interview techniques, as well as helping older clients discover new potential careers opened up by their years of experience. These services are offered free, with the organisation relying entirely upon grants and donations to fund it.

case Study Wokingham Job Support centre

BWork and local economy

While earnings and productivity are high, unemployment in parts of Berkshire is a significant issue.

Several areas within Reading have long term unemployment in excess of 38%.

What civil society organisations can doyOung PeOPLe There are a wide variety of civil society organisations trying to help young people into work, either targeting particular vulnerable groups or with employability as their main focus. changes to the way funding has been organised has deprived many of these organisations of vital resources. community philanthropists could help to fill the gaps in provision, particularly where the Work Programme has failed to deliver.

VuLneraBLe grOuPScivil society organisations that support particular groups will have an up-to-date knowledge of the impact of unemployment on the people they are helping. community philanthropists should tap into this intelligence to inform their funding decisions.

WOrkLeSS hOuSehOLdScivil society groups are particularly good at helping those furthest from employment towards work. Supporting families dealing with the considerable and wide ranging consequences of long-term unemployment is also a significant part of their role. There are a number of groups that work specifically with families to become more self-sufficient by helping them to tackle the isolation they suffer.

CarerSThere are many good carers in Berkshire and civil society organisations are ideal mechanisms for providing support and helping them to juggle work and caring. Many carers have low, or no, qualifications and a key preventative activity is working with young carers, giving them time to study and have a social life, in preparation for work.

SeLF-emPLOymenT The public sector in Berkshire is introducing funding to support people into self-employment. civil society can play a role in this in a number of ways:

• Preparing their service users, usually vulnerable groups, by ensuring stability, self-esteem, basic skills etc

• Referring them to relevant support

a growing number of organisations are creating social enterprises that employ their own service users. Development towards self-employment can be part of this.

gVa and gdP civil society organisations make a significant contribution to gVa - contributing as much as the construction industry, nationally. The contribution of volunteers’ activities, even if measured at minimum wage, would be worth £600m p.a.

The rise in unemployment is one of the most publicised consequences of the economic crisis. It affects most sections of society and has an impact on nearly all of the other issues addressed here. changes in funding has the potential to draw resources away from those who are most vulnerable, face multiple barriers, and have the greatest need of support. This is where civil society and community philanthropists should be concentrating their efforts.

Productivity, employment and earnings within Berkshire are high and the county is affected to a lesser degree than many others by the knock-on effect of recent austerity measures. Berkshire has obvious physical and social assets that make it an ideal location for business. Thriving civil society organisations are part of this, and can also help to ensure that the benefits of economic development are shared by all Berkshire’s residents.

LeVeLS OF emPLOymenT in BerkShire

Bracknell Forest 79.9 84 2.63 21.14 0.35 10.6 35.2

Reading 71.9 75.6 2.73 30.62 0.16 13.1 47.73

Slough 70.5 76.2 4.3 29 0.16 14.3 52.7

West Berkshire 78 82.3 2.18 24.77 0.33 11.4 35.15

Windsor and Maidenhead

78.4 80.7 2.39 23.34 0.32 9.3 30.78

Wokingham 80.8 83.7 1.55 20.45 0.44 8.7 25.53

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Vital Statistics

how we are doing C

Slough Refugee Support is a charity committed to helping all asylum seekers and refugees in Slough to achieve their rights and settle with dignity into a new community. It provides relief from poverty, the preservation and protection of physical and mental health, and the improvement of education for asylum seekers and refugees from over 45 countries. The main activities offered include drop-in advice sessions, job clubs, a refugee forum and classes in english and sewing.

During 2012, the charity dealt with over 200 drop-in sessions, 656 immigration enquiries, 339 benefit-related cases, 193 people with indefinite leave to remain and 114 clients using the job club. 51 clients have refugee humanitarian protection status.

The type of interventions and assistance provided has been predominantly preparing immigration applications and assisting with welfare benefit issues. During 2011-12 the charity had 138 volunteers of whom 48 were service users.

case Study Slough Refugee Support

39% of Slough’s population was born abroad.

immigration has increased across the county – especially in Slough and reading.

What civil society organisations can doreFugeeS This is an area where civil Society groups can provide effective and specific support.

neW reSidenTSOver 6,000 voluntary groups and charities work within Berkshire, many of whom will ease the transition of new residents into local communities. Specialised groups will often help with very specific support needs, such as health.

Berkshire is seen as a transition county for many migrants, with employment opportunities being the main driver. Immigration has increased across the county, with particular concentrations in Slough and Reading.

It is evident that those areas which are experiencing the highest rates of population growth (i.e. Slough and Reading) are also displaying the greatest stress with relation to other key indicators, such as Housing, Skills and employment.

New migrant populations could be seen as competing for jobs – especially low-skilled jobs - which could lead to social tensions and unrest.

getting started

Bracknell Forest 20%

Reading 22%

Slough 28%

West Berkshire 15%

Windsor and Maidenhead 14%

Wokingham 15%

Bracknell Forest 14,911 98,289

38,620 117,080

54,562 85,548

13,913 139,887

25,126 119,474

19,058 135,342

Reading

Slough

West Berkshire


Wokingham

POPuLaTiOn Change (1991/2011)

FOreign BOrn POPuLaTiOn WiThin BerkShire

POPuLaTiOn aCrOSS BerkShire

Bracknell Forest 113,200 109,700 3.2 14,911 13%

Reading 155,700 144,700 7.6 38,620 25%

Slough 140,200 120,600 16.3 54,652 39%

West Berkshire 153,800 144,500 6.4 13,913 9%


144,600 133,500 8.3 25,126 17%

Wokingham 154,400 150,300 2.7 19,058 12%20

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Source – Migration Observatory, University of Oxford

Source – Migration Observatory, University of Oxford

Vital Statistics

how we are doing d

The Bracknell Forest Food Bank provide nutritionally balanced, emergency food supplies for people in need within the Bracknell Forest area. Individuals and families in crisis are referred to the Food Bank by a wide range of local agencies and organisations, where they are given food packs containing enough food for three days. all food is donated by local people and businesses.

Since its launch in 2009, the Bracknell Food Bank has supported 8,600 adults and children – 95% of whom live in the Bracknell Forest area. The latest figures show that in May 2013, the Food Bank gave 3.6 tonnes of free food to 472 children and adults – three times as many as in May 2012, when it supported 160.

case Study Bracknell Food Bank

The Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) score in some areas of Slough is 34.

What civil society organisations can doPOCkeTS OF dePriVaTiOn Because Berkshire is generally perceived as an affluent county, it is important to study statistics at ward level as well as Unitary authority level.

urBan WardSThe evidence suggests inequality reduces quality of life for both rich and poor in an area. For civil society and philanthropists this may suggest the need to focus on pockets of deprivation.

ruraL WardSThe majority of Rural issues, i.e. broadband and public transport, require significant funding from the public sector. Perhaps the most appropriate contribution from civil society would be community transport.

Inequality is a key issue for Berkshire. There is a stark contrast between the affluence of some communities and the deprivation in others. community philanthropy – the use of wealth to address local social issues – is well established in the county and has a clear role to play in bridging the gap between its residents’ quality of life.

The gap between rich and poor

Berkshire’s overall affluence masks significant levels of local deprivation.

Bracknell Forest 32,800

Reading 27,600

Slough 23,900

West Berkshire 34,100

Windsor and Maidenhead 42,900

Wokingham 37,000

National 27,400

Bracknell Forest 9.58

Reading 20.63

Slough 24.1

West Berkshire 9.99

Windsor and Maidenhead 8.85

5.47Wokingham

Baylis and Stoke 27.93

Britwell 29.40

Central 27.83

Chalvey 34.34

Cippenham Green 16.33

Cippenham Meadows 20.87

Colnbrook with Poyle 24.59

Farnham 22.83

Foxborough 25.72

Haymill 19.02

Kederminster 23.29

Langley St Mary’s 16.37

Upton 20.03

Wexham Lea 24.94

inCOme in BerkShire: TOTaL aVerage (2010/2011)

BerkShire imd (aVerage SCOre) 2010

SLOugh imd (aVerage SCOre) 2010

20%Several areas of Berkshire are within the top 20% for deprivation in the Uk.

1in3children in some areas of Berkshire live in poverty according to the children’s Society

The Index of Multiple Deprivation; average SOa score provides a weighted average figure for the levels of deprivation in a given area. The IMD consists of 7 separate weighted indices (education 13.5%, employment 22.5%, crime 9.3%, Health 13.5%, Housing 9.3% & Income 22.5% Living environment 9.3%). The higher the rank figure, the higher the deprivation level. Super Output areas (SOas) are statistically standard areas with varying numbers per ward (usually around 15 SOas per ward). They allow standard comparison between areas based on number of households.




how we are doing

Vital Statistics

Slough Homeless Our concern – known as SHOc - tackles homelessness and social exclusion, within a safe, friendly and non-judgmental environment. Their clients are either homeless, threatened with homelessness or in inadequate accommodation. The organisation aims to provide clients with the knowledge and tools that will help them to re-integrate back into society and become useful members of the community.

Their day centre is the only one in the Slough area giving support to the most vulnerable members of the community, and covers a 20 mile radius. around 40 people per day use the service which offers housing advice as well as hot food, clothes, shower and laundry facilities.

SHOc average around 80 new clients each year and find accommodation for around 100 people, many of whom need continued support to maintain their tenancies. SHOc have served over 7,000 hot lunches and have provided over 1,200 advice sessions related to housing and benefits.

case Study Slough Homeless Our concern

House prices across Berkshire have increased by an average of 35% in the last 10 years.

What civil society organisations can doFueL POVerTyalthough many of the solutions are about providing more energy efficient homes, civil society can offer advice to help people access benefits relating to fuel poverty. It can also bring together local agencies to tackle the implications of fuel poverty such as poor health, to raise awareness and make referrals.

QuaLiTy OF hOuSinga number of recent reports describe the impact of living in sub-standard rented accommodation on vulnerable groups. There is a clear role here for civil society, and especially for organisations that focus on a particular group, such as the disabled. advocacy between tenant and landlord might be a key service.

hOmeLeSSneSS PreVenTiOnVcS have a unique understanding of vulnerable groups. They work holistically and have the inclination and freedom to be innovative and flexible. Public sector services are, by contrast, much less so.

VaCanT PrOPerTieSBerkshire’s Unitary authorities and others are working to address this issue. However, there may be a greater role for civil society in supporting their work.

Care LeaVerSLeaving a care or supported environment is a daunting process for young people, and they require on-going support to achieve stability. They are 3 times more likely to offend, 4 times more likely to have mental health issues, 5 times less likely to do well at school and 8 times more likely to be excluded. 20% of all homeless people are care leavers and support in securing suitable accommodation is a vital need for this group.

Housing and homelessness issues paint a particularly complicated picture in Berkshire. affordability and availability of housing is a serious issue in the county. There is also the need for philanthropic investment to support action on issues such as fuel poverty in small villages, or homelessness in urban centres such as Slough.

dHousing and homelessness

Berkshire is one of the least affordable areas in the uk in which to live.

aVerage hOuSe PriCeS in BerkShire

Bracknell Forest 260,870.21 25.66 4.72 76.67 68.48 29.23 1.82

Reading 231,604.13 28.1 2.57 76.13 54.84 42.37 3.53

Slough 210,704.59 36.92 3.09 83.49 52.7 44.96 3.53

West Berkshire 306,651.44 37.94 9.64 69.32 69.67 27.56 3.57


450,505.15 56.56 10.19 63.73 68 29.44 0.97

Wokingham 312,258.19 26.78 2.76 72.19 79.73 18.22 2.09

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aFFOrdaBiLiTy SCOre (2012)

Note: The most affordable areas have the highest score.

This indicator is an official Performance Indicator. Property prices are an overall average of property prices covering detached; semi-detached; terraced and flats/maisonettes in a local authority area. The average house price is an average taken over four quarterly house price data releases. earnings data is in the form of residence-based gross weekly. Data issued in august 2013.

emPTy hOmeS in BerkShire

Bracknell Forest

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Slough

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Wokingham

1575

9361262

1844

1242

622

Source – empty Homes 2012



Vital Statistics

how we are doing

aik Saath was established in the late 1990s, in response to gang violence between young asian people in Slough. as a result, the founders of the organisation believed that young people needed to lead the efforts to resolve this conflict. aik Saath has now evolved from a response to violent conflict into a charity which proactively promotes community cohesion, primarily through activities led by young people for young people.

Many of the activities the group has delivered have taken place against a national backdrop of disturbances and civil conflict, making it even clearer why we should be so proud of our young volunteers. In the past year, 154 young people, from thirteen different ethnic backgrounds, volunteered to lead our work. The difference their training is making in schools, young people’s centres and the wider community is praised by teachers, youth workers, Local authority representatives and Thames Valley Police.

case Study aik Saath – Together as One

Some areas of Reading and Slough are in the top 40% for crime in the Uk.

What civil society organisations can doTyPeS OF CrimeRising crime rates are always a concern, and it is important that all parts of the community work together to prevent it. Partnership organisations can bring together the business, community, voluntary and statutory sectors to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour. civil society organisations work with young people at risk and support parents, carers and guardians to help change attitudes and behaviour.

urBan WardSThe highest incidence of crime seems to be confined to particularly vulnerable communities. Tackling the issue requires co-ordinated effort between the Unitary authorities, the police and civil society organisations. Berkshire has a crime and community safety plan and it is essential that those communities affected by crime are involved in the plan through their voluntary organisations and community groups. civil society organisations are particularly skilled at mobilising a community’s voice on crime. The preventative work those organisations do ensure communities remain a safe place to live.

hidden CrimePublic education and support for the victims of these types of crimes are areas where the community and voluntary sector can be very effective in complementing statutory services.

The general picture across the county is mixed in relation to crime and anti-social behaviour. There is scope for improvement, particularly in the more deprived urban areas. The role of civil society organisations in diverting young people from crime and anti-social behaviour is a key area where philanthropy can support continued improvement.

dSafety and crime

Civil society organisations can play a key role in diverting young people from crime and anti-social behaviour.

OFFenCeS aCrOSS BerkShire (2011/2012)

area Name Offences: total (pop)

Offences:burglaries (pop)

Offences: violent crimes (pop)

Offences: vehicle crimes (vehicles)

Bracknell Forest 23.28 1.65 10.07 7.48

Reading 55.52 8.68 19.35 26.34

Slough 64.95 10.11 22.63 33.61

West Berkshire 30.28 3.64 10.91 11.33

Windsor and Maidenhead 38.67 5.51 11.64 18.02

Wokingham 15.76 2.6 4.93 5.14


Reading 145.72

Slough 170.48

West Berkshire 79.47


Wokingham 41.38

Crime: SCOre (2011/2012)

hOW COuLd Crime Be PreVenTed Or reduCed in yOur COmmuniTy

Police Presence

community andNeighbourhood Involvement

addressing Youth Issues

Law enforcement and Punishment Reforms

Social Policy

Nothing can be done

Perception and Fear

41%

4%2%7%

9%

16%

12%

The highest incidences of crime seem confined to particularly vulnerable communities.

This indicator provides an index of the total number of offences per 1,000 resident population. Total offences include theft from vehicles; dwelling burglary; robberies and violent offences. The index is to the gB average, providing a figure which is relative to the national trend. The lower the score therefore, the better the crime rate



Source – BcF community Survey 2013

how we are doing

aBc to Read – assisting Berkshire children to read works with young people identified by their teachers as struggling to read.

The charity trains community volunteers as reading helpers who commit to supporting each child for at least three terms. They give children a brighter future, focusing on their success and building reading confidence. aBc to Read supports schools in the more deprived areas of Berkshire and those that have children who are falling behind. The children helped may lack support at home, have english as a second language, be in care, or have insufficient reading opportunities.

The aim is to help as many children as possible to improve their reading and enable them to achieve success in later education and confidently meet the challenges of adult life. Last year the group: supported over 350 children, mostly primary, in 60 schools; trained 50 volunteers and 30 parents to support pre-school children; assisted 4 schools to engage their own parent helpers.

case Study aBc to Read

What civil society organisations can doPeOPLe WiTh nO QuaLiFiCaTiOnSThis measure is strongly correlated to disadvantaged areas across the county where there is a strong link to the lack of basic skills such as literacy and numeracy. activities that tackle barriers to learning and aspirations, and encourage participation and volunteering are important, as is a focus on the more disadvantaged communities.

LiTeraCy and numeraCyMany civil society organisations offer basic skills provision, but even the larger ones are suffering from the current crisis in funding.

In addition, organisations that work with vulnerable groups, such as the disabled, those with learning difficulties or ex-offenders, should be able to complement their core service with basic skills provision. This would assist them in supporting individuals towards stability. emphasis could be placed on working in partnership to connect services.

BuLLyingcommunity and voluntary sector organisations are well placed to support anti-bullying work in schools because they are working with large numbers of children and young people in a range of settings. The types of intervention include:

• Information, advice and support to parents

• Providing preventative information, strategies and peer support schemes directly to children and young people

• Working with those who have been the victims of bullying

• Specialist work focussed on bullying prevention around homophobia, disability, special needs and racism, young carers and domestic violence

These interventions are also applicable to civil Society Organisations.

ThOSe nOT in eduCaTiOn, emPLOymenT, Or Training (neeTs)addressing the needs of this group requires cross-sector working. civil Society Organisations are good at engaging excluded young people as part of a preventative approach and can help young people gain confidence, self-esteem and basic skills.

against a background of average or above average educational performance in the county, there are quite different issues depending on geography. Deprived urban areas share issues of under-performance, and it is here that philanthropic action to support re-engagement with learning is most needed.

CLearning

although Berkshire performs well overall, some deprived urban areas show cause for concern.

civil Society Organisations are good at engaging excluded young people as part of a cross-sector approach.

Vital Statistics

Over 11% of young people in Slough have no qualifications at all.

QuaLiFiCaTiOnS aCrOSS BerkShire

Bracknell Forest 88.4 17.22 22.69 32.95 105.19

Reading 76.2 13.49 15.47 46.13 101.63

Slough 82.9 16.59 18.12 33.63 95.31

West Berkshire 74.5 14.59 22.4 35.98 106.77


86.8 12.3 18.89 48.22 108.75

Wokingham 86.3 11.91 18.82 45.89 108.90

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Slough 11.28

West Berkshire 5.83


Wokingham 4.3

numBer OF WOrking age POPuLaTiOn Per 100 WiTh nO QuaLiFiCaTiOnS: (reS) (january-deCemBer 2012)



Vital Statistics

how we are doing

70% of those asked graded their local facilities as either ‘good’ or ‘excellent’.

B

Situated in Reading, Jelly is a charity group that celebrates and encourages the development and understanding of the creative arts. events held throughout the year help to bring the creative arts to the general public, whilst a variety of workshops help Reading’s residents to discover and develop their own talents.

To help encourage the development of the arts, studio space and exhibition facilities are available to allow people to create and exhibit their own work. Jelly Tots, a pre-school club run every Tuesday during term-time, helps to encourage young children and develop their creative skills.

In the past year, Jelly has joined forces with Readipop to create Reading caN, a new culture and arts Network supported by the artswork as the arts council Bridge organisation for the South east, to bring artists, arts, and cultural organisations together to help co-ordinate and improve Reading’s cultural offerings for children and young people.

case Study Jelly arts

What civil society organisations can doaCCeSS TO ameniTieS (gaLLerieS, LiBrarieS, muSeumS, TheaTreS, CinemaS, COunTy ShOWS, FeTeS)Participation is an important factor in general health and well-being, so barriers to access really matter. While public transport has a role to play in this, civil society can contribute through interventions that bring vulnerable groups, such as isolated older people, to the places where they can participate.

VuLneraBLe grOuPS and LOCaLiTieSPerhaps the main focus of philanthropy should be about supporting local groups to use the arts as a means of achieving their aims, and also supporting groups specifically using participatory art for social ends.

Using art to tackle deprivation, or using it to get people more interested and engaged in making and experiencing art are not mutually exclusive. Projects that address both are a more cost-effective investment and maximise social capital.

The arts can also play a role in the provision of therapy following a physical or mental trauma, and is frequently employed in the education and care of special needs children and adults.

Berkshire’s assets are undeniable, boasting spectacular buildings, a wealth of talent in fields ranging from music to the visual arts and an historical legacy that reflects its place at the heart of world history.

access to amenities can be an issue. enabling people to experience and appreciate everything Berkshire has to offer has long been a major focus of philanthropic action.

arts and culture

Berkshire residents are very satisfied with their cultural amenities, though access for vulnerable groups is an issue.

arTS and CuLTure

Bracknell Forest 42.1 19.86 78.66 61 63.19 36.8

Reading 41.9 45.8 74.16 61.8 47.18 43.62

Slough 46.6 28.28 56.33 56.4 48.36 23.7

West Berkshire 41 35.45 72.05 58.6 41.81 45.07


45.5 24.74 78.78 62.8 59.84 46.55

Wokingham 47.7 23.63 72.79 61.1 51.92 28.39

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civil society has a role in enabling vulnerable groups to access places where they can participate.


how we are doing

Hurst Bowling club has been an integral part of the local community in Berkshire since 1747. The community group is committed to preserving and supporting Flat green Bowls for members of the local community, especially older and infirm members who would otherwise be socially isolated. The club aims to promote a cohesive society through a sport and leisure activity that allows males and females of all ages and physical abilities to compete in a social atmosphere.

The community project enables the very elderly and adults with additional needs to participate and interact with each other. The club also works in conjunction with other local charities to encourage those with mental health issues to take up the sport. all of the work to keep the green, grounds and equipment and to administer the club is carried out by volunteers.

case Study Hurst Bowling club

Vital Statistics

at least 50% of survey respondents, when asked, felt that isolation and loneliness is an issue in Berkshire.

What civil society organisations can doiSOLaTiOnInfrastructure is important here, but there is also much that civil society can do. Befriending services are particularly helpful, increasing participation, independence, health and wellbeing for vulnerable people. Isolation within society is likely to increase due to the ageing population, making such services even more important.

demOCraCy and LOCaL deCiSiOn makingcivil society organisations provide an important link between local people and statutory organisations. The role of civil society “infrastructure organisations” can be particularly valuable in acting as a voice for the people they represent. Trust and co-operation between local government, statutory services and civil society groups can be a valuable asset in helping to encourage greater engagement and participation in local decision making.

COmmuniTy SPiriTcivil society organisations are good at bringing people together and can play a key role in improving their sense of community. This provides benefits for all sectors of society and helps reduce isolation while improving participation and an overall sense of belonging.

The overall impression is that people who live in Berkshire are happy with most things that contribute to an area’s community strength, although ‘working together’ and ‘knowing neighbours’ are possible areas of concern.

Strong communities

residents generally feel that Berkshire is a strong community, though isolation is an issue for some groups.

B

35% of survey respondents, when asked, felt that community groups and volunteering could encourage better community engagement.

BeLOnging - LeVeLS OF SaTiSFaCTiOn WiThin BerkShire

area Name NI 5 -satisfaction with local area (2008)

NI 6 - give unpaid help (2008)

Bracknell Forest 83.4 20.6

Reading 75.7 24

Slough 63.6 16.7

West Berkshire 84.7 27.3

Windsor and Maidenhead 86.3 23.2

Wokingham 87.5 27.1

hOW TO PreVenT iSOLaTiOn and LOneLineSS

hOW TO enCOurage COmmuniTy engagemenT

community groups and Services

Neighbourly Support

Family Support

greater accessibility and Transport

Better communication

Lack of community Spirit

community Social groups and Volunteering

Local Parish councils

Other

Unsure

19%

19%

10%

5%

17%

11%

7%

11%

67%

35%




how we are doing

Vital Statistics

The Five a Day Market garden in englefield, West Berkshire, is a community project that engages the rural and urban community by selling affordable, naturally grown produce. The project provides education focused on nature and fruit & vegetable production to children, adults and older people, who are able to experience a ‘market garden’ first-hand.

Five a Day Market garden offers a range of opportunities for volunteers of all ages and abilities to learn about topics such as growing their own food sustainably, healthy eating and healthy lifestyles, enjoying and looking after wildlife and getting creative with environmental art. The beneficiaries of the project increase their social networks in the local area and enjoy the benefits of gentle exercise.

case Study Five a Day Market garden

Over 72% felt that the public open spaces in Berkshire were either ‘good’ or ‘excellent’.

What civil society organisations can doCO2 emiSSiOnSIt is difficult to see how civil society can play a significant role in tackling this issue in terms of direct interventions to reduce emissions. However, environmental groups campaigning for action to reduce emissions and promote public awareness may have a role to play.

dereLiCT Land and BuiLdingSWithin Berkshire, greater philanthropic support of a particular development may bring derelict land and buildings back into use.

LiTTer and FLy TiPPingThese issues relate to pride in the local area versus anti-social behaviour. civil society can play a leading role, with a number of good partnerships already working to tackle these problems.

LOCaL ameniTieS and TranSPOrTWhile better public transport is needed, civil society can help with community transport schemes, befriending services and reducing isolation.

environmental issues present both strengths and weaknesses. West Berkshire’s rural countryside is an obvious asset. However, rural areas are affected by issues of access, while urban areas are more likely to be blighted by litter and graffiti. cO

2 emissions are a concern, due to

the area’s motorways and its proximity to Heathrow.

denvironment

While Berkshire has some enviable rural countryside, its urban areas have a number of environmental issues.

hOW TO imPrOVe LOCaL PuBLiC SPaCeS

hOW TO imPrOVe COmmuniTy FaCiLiTieS

address Issues of Littering and Dog Fouling

Limit new developments / More Public Space

community Maintenance Projects and Use

Better facilities and maintenance

Other

Increased Leisure

Improved Health Facilities

Improved Library Services

Improved Schooling

Other

Unsure

27%

24%

24%

24%

3%

10%

19%

36%

11%

9%

14%

10%



22%of residents aspired to improve the local natural environment/open spaces.

how we are doing

creativity in Sport works with local schools to provide support and guidance to young people with emotional and behavioural difficulties. Founded by former TVam fitness instructor Lizzie Webb and two-time Olympic silver medallist Debbie Flood, the group run a variety of fitness based courses, each with its own focus.

Their Life Skills Programme aims to help students experiencing emotional or behavioural difficulties, whereas the Motivation courses help engage pupils who lack the focus and drive to reach their academic potential. The Work out into Work courses, commissioned by Jobcentre Plus, gives those looking for work a chance to raise their confidence and self-esteem.

The team also lead weekly fitness sessions for senior citizens, as well as assisting Thames Valley Police in their Youth Violence Project. In 2008, the group started the Body Rocks project, a scheme that allows young people taking part in their sessions to gain an accredited fitness training qualification.

case Study creativity in Sport

Vital Statistics

Of those asked, almost 60% rated the health of people in the community as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’.

What civil society organisations can doFruiT and VegeTaBLe COnSumPTiOnProjects which engage people in creative and holistic approaches to healthy eating, such as growing fruit and vegetables, creative cooking classes and food tasting sessions, have been successful in increasing interest in eating, cooking and enjoying more healthy food.

aLCOhOL deaThScivil society organisations can play a key role in educating and encouraging at-risk groups, while providing a vital link to statutory services.

Binge drinking, OBeSiTy and SmOkingIt is most important that civil society organisations work with, and understand, the groups that are most susceptible to these activities. civil society organisations can help by providing advice and support; drop in facilities; improved awareness; healthy lifestyle campaigns and referrals to appropriate public services.

Organisations that focus on particular vulnerable groups work with them to build confidence, self-esteem and stability, all of which have a positive impact on these three issues.

Berkshire is generally a healthy place to live. Some of the urban areas exhibit less healthy lifestyles, but this is concentrated in very specific areas. Overall Berkshire does much better than the rest of the country for health issues.

BHealth and wellbeing

Overall, Berkshire is a healthier place to live than most areas, though obesity and smoking remain issues of some concern.

heaLTh aCrOSS BerkShire

Bracknell Forest 82.07 87 101.28 4.1 23.2 17.6 86.69

Reading 80.3 99 110.38 5.5 21.9 21.6 85.47

Slough 81.07 94 110.43 4.9 23.7 19.9 83.89

West Berkshire 82.31 87 97.61 2.9 23.7 16.3 86.14


81.72 95 96.55 2.2 19.1 18.5 86.73

Wokingham 82.95 82 91.48 3.9 20.2 15.8 87.81


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23%of people in some areas of Berkshire are obese.

how we are doing

Slough council for Voluntary Services supports local charities within the Slough area. The charity is an association of local groups who elect an official to manage the organisation. cVS offers a wealth of advice and training for small organisations, helping to set up new charities, establish an effective workflow, looking for suitable volunteers and employees, managing finances and funding opportunities, and connecting groups that can help one another.

These services help small, yet vital, charities to avoid failure due to lack of experience or resources. The group also enables charities to be part of the town’s decision making processes, through various forums held throughout the year. ScVS also holds forums specifically for organisations that deal with young people and children, and are the lead body in the Transforming Local Infrastructure Project, a group effort being undertaken by several local organisations.

case Study Slough cVS

Vital Statistics

66% of local groups surveyed had seen their funding reduced.

What civil society organisations can doSuPPOrT FOr exiSTing SerViCeSSustaining much needed existing services is a crucial role for philanthropists, and is much more cost effective than restarting new projects or services that have ceased to operate. Retaining staff also allows organisations to more easily rebuild when the economy improves.

ShOrT Term and COre Fundingcommunity philanthropists should consider a more strategic approach to their giving, perhaps working in partnership around a specific issue. Strategic longer-term funding will support interventions with a more sustainable impact.

The rOLe OF granTScivil society has lost a significant amount of strategic grant funding that has not been replaced. It is, therefore, more important than ever for community philanthropists to act together, and to take a more strategic, long-term view.

civil society organisations are struggling due to the impact of public spending cuts and the move towards contracting, which can disadvantage smaller groups. although Philanthropy cannot bridge the increasing gap in funding, it can perhaps help some organisations adapt to change.

civil Society Organisations d

Public spending cuts and the current economic climate are taking their toll on civil society organisations, curtailing many much needed services.

hOW TO imPrOVe CiViL SOCieTy OrganiSaTiOnS

charitable grants

encourage more Local Philanthropy

Influencing Policy

Supporting Local community groups

Other

15%

50%

17%

17%

2%


as grant funding reduces, a more strategic, longer term view is becoming increasingly vital.

To build Stronger Ties Between Local People in your Community 52%

To tackle the exclusion of those disadvantaged people living

on the edge of the community31%

To improve the Safety and Prevent Crime 29%

To improve Health and Wellbeing

28%

To improve Education and Skills

27%

To tackle the Current Financial Downturn that the Economy

has been Experiencing

26%

To reduce Unemployment

22%

To improve Arts, Culture and Heritage

22%

To improve the Housing Affordability

22%

To tackle People’s Isolation

8%

To improve the Local Natural Environment and/or Open Spaces

27%

SurVey reSPOndenTS’ TOP Three aSPiraTiOnS FOr BerkShire COmmuniTieS


how we are doing

Britwell Youth & community Project has been supporting and developing opportunities for children and young people since 1959. Support is given to young people who are at risk of being excluded from school, or of falling into the criminal justice system.

The club provides diversionary activities for young people, providing them with opportunities to work alongside others of different ethnicity, age and background, thus building respect for others.

By enabling young people to participate in non-formal learning and leisure time activities, the club has a significant impact - helping young people to fulfil their potential and make a positive contribution to the community in which they live.

case Study Britwell Youth and community Project

What civil society organisations can dounemPLOymenTa wide range of civil society organisations are trying to help young people into work, either targeting particular vulnerable groups, or with employability as their main focus. However, the consolidation of previous employability funding into the single Work Programme has deprived many of these organisations of vital resources. community philanthropists can help to fill the gaps in provision - especially where the Work Programme has failed to deliver.

POVerTychild poverty is closely associated with unemployment, particularly with workless households. The most important interventions focus on helping vulnerable individuals and families to overcome barriers to work.

Learningcivil society organisations are particularly good at working with vulnerable young people, dealing with issues such as self-esteem, basic skills and barriers to education.

heaLThIt is most important that civil society organisations work with, and understand, the groups that are most susceptible to health issues. civil society organisations can help by providing advice and support; drop in facilities; improved awareness; healthy lifestyle campaigns and referrals to appropriate public services.

Nationally, young people face high levels of unemployment and the reprocussions that are associated with this. Young people in Berkshire also face challenges growing up within isolated rural communities in West Berkshire or in the pockets of urban deprivation in Reading and Slough. However young people in Berkshire do actually fare significantly better than their peers elsewhere.

dYoung People

many young people in isolated rural communities or pockets of urban deprivation face very challenging conditions.

The percentage of children living in poverty is 30%, or higher, in some areas of Reading and Slough.

Vital Statistics

8% of 16-24 year olds in Slough are unemployed.

yOuTh unemPLOymenT in BerkShirearea Name c- Unemployment

(16-24) (2011)area Name c- Unemployment

(16-24) (2011)

Bracknell Forest 6.2 West Berkshire 5.71

Reading 5.58 Windsor and Maidenhead 5.89

Slough 7.95 Wokingham 4.87

Mapledurham 27 5% Langley St Mary's 307 18%

Thames 178 7% Upton 366 19%

South Lake 102 10% cippenham green 449 19%

Peppard 207 10% kedermister 526 22%

Loddon 250 12% Haymill 558 22%

Bulmershe and Whitegates 246 14% Farnham 617 23%

Park 367 18% Foxborough 588 26%

caversham 532 24% cippenham Meadows 822 26%

abbey 398 25% Wexham Lea 793 26%

Redlands 337 26% central 863 27%

katesgrove 453 29% Baylis and Stoke 953 27%

church 827 37% chalvey 878 29%

Westwood 35 5% Britwell 854 31%

Birch copse 149 8%

Purley on Thames 125 9%

Pangbourne 56 11%

Theale 103 16%

calcot 365 17%

Tilehurst 385 18%

kentwood 542 22%

Southcote 501 26%

Battle 661 27%

Minster 531 28%

Norcot 727 30%

Whitley 1103 34%

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The 2011 census shows Slough had the highest proportion of people under 19 in the South east at 29%.

ChiLdren in POVerTy in BerkShire

Source – end child Poverty


Tell us your priorities

name ..........................................................................................................address ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................email ............................................................................................................(Must be completed)

Which of the following terms describes your perspective on the issues raised within Berkshire’s Vital Signs? (You may choose more than one)

i am a…

charitable donor with an individual, corporate or trust fund or donation

Occasional charitable giver

grant recipient

Local resident

community or voluntary sector worker (paid or voluntary)

Private Sector representative

Public Sector representative

Other (state)

.............................................................................................................................................

my three priorities for Berkshire would be:

1 ..................................................................................................................2 ..................................................................................................................3 ...................................................................................................................

my theme gradings are:Vital Signs Theme grade (a to e)

Work and local economy

getting started

The gap between rich and poor

Housing and homelessness

Safety and crime

Learning

arts and culture

Strong communities

environment

Health and wellbeing

civil Society Organisations

Young People

Thanks for your help!Please return this survey form to Berkshire community Foundation, 1650 arlington Business Park, Theale, Reading, Berkshire Rg7 4Sa. alternatively, complete this exercise online at

www.berkshirecf.org/vitalsigns

Data Protection act 1998 Thank you for taking part in this survey. The information you supply will be stored electronically and used by us to inform further work on Berkshire’s Vital Signs. We will not publish individual responses without permission or supply personal information to third parties.

Berkshire community Foundation would like to thank the University of Reading for their support in producing this report.

Berkshire community Foundation 1650 arlington Business Park, Theale, Reading, Berkshire Rg7 4Sa

Telephone: 0118 930 3021 Fax: 0118 930 4933 email: [email protected] Website: www.berkshirecf.org

Your opinions matter

ViTaL SignS gradeS – WhaT They mean

a everything is great. Let’s keep things that way!

B Things are going well, but we can make them better

C The situation is Ok, but could be improved

d Things aren’t going very well. We should take action as soon as possible

e Things are going very badly. We must act now!

If you would like to know more about Berkshire’s Vital Signs, please contact:

Connecting people who care with causes that matter. registered Charity number 294220

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