We are continually listening to ideas and suggestions from across the community. Every suggestion is recorded and carefully considered to assess how practical and achievable it may be. Some initiatives have been quick to introduce and have already received tremendous local support. One example is the Lambourn Valley Running Club, which attracted more than 40 members within its first few weeks.
If you have an idea which could help strengthen community life in the Valley of the Racehorse, please do get in touch with Hayley Warrick, Lambourn Valley Community Organiser. Hayley would be delighted to discuss your idea and add it to the growing list of community initiatives.
Email: hayley.warrick@lambournjunction.uk
Telephone: 01488 505050
Suggestions in alphabetical order:
| Suggestion | Details | Status |
| Adult Reading and Writing support | Consider establishing confidential support sessions for adults who experience difficulty with reading and writing, particularly when completing forms or accessing essential services. Practical assistance would help individuals apply for benefits, manage correspondence, understand official documents and engage more confidently with health, housing and employment services. Improving literacy skills enhances independence, reduces anxiety and prevents social isolation. Delivered sensitively by trained volunteers or professionals, such support would strengthen dignity, inclusion and equal access to opportunity within the community. | In Evaluation |
| After School Cafe / Homework Club | Establishing a dedicated club and safe space in the village would give young people a welcoming environment to meet, socialise and unwind after the school day. Many pupils travel to secondary schools in Hungerford, Newbury and Wantage, and school based clubs are often inaccessible because they must return to Lambourn by bus. A locally based after school provision would bridge that gap. It would offer structured activities, mentoring and informal support within a safe setting. Such a space would promote wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen friendships, while providing reassurance to parents that their children have a positive, supervised place to gather. | In Evaluation |
| Age UK or equivalent “information and advice” service | Consider partnering with Age Concern or a similar charity to offer regular advice sessions for older residents in the Lambourn Valley. A visiting adviser could provide support with welfare and benefits queries, form filling and general guidance on services available to older people. Holding sessions locally would make help more accessible and reassuring. Costs would be modest, mainly mileage and a small sessional fee, offering valuable, practical support to elderly residents. | In Evaluation |
| Business Club | Consider setting up a Lambourn Valley Business Club as a friendly, practical way for local businesses to get together regularly. It would create space to meet, share ideas and talk openly about opportunities and challenges. By building stronger connections, businesses can collaborate more easily, support one another and keep more trade within the Valley. The club would also help members speak with one clear voice on local issues that affect them all. Above all, it would strengthen relationships, boost confidence and celebrate the energy and enterprise that make the Lambourn Valley such a distinctive and vibrant place to work and trade. | In Evaluation |
| Business Directory | We will refresh the Lambourn Business Directory by reviewing existing listings, updating contact details, and inviting local businesses, clubs, and community groups to add or improve their entries. Through direct outreach, community networks, and local promotion, we will encourage wider participation so the directory on www.lambourn.org becomes a clear and useful guide to services, organisations, and opportunities across Lambourn. | Up and Running |
| Citizen’s Advice | Consider inviting Citizens Advice to run occasional pop up clinics in Lambourn, providing residents with free, confidential guidance on benefits, debt, housing, employment and other personal matters. Local sessions would make trusted advice more accessible, particularly for those without transport or facing financial pressure. Early access to professional support can prevent issues from escalating and improve confidence in decision making. Hosting clinics within the village would strengthen community resilience and wellbeing. | In Evaluation |
| Community Calender | Consider establishing a monthly community calendar for the Lambourn Valley, published both online and in print, bringing together the wide range of clubs, events, training sessions, performances and support services taking place locally. There is already so much happening across the Valley, yet it can be surprisingly challenging to know what is taking place and when. A shared calendar would improve visibility, reduce clashes, encourage participation and collaboration, support inclusion, and strengthen community identity and belonging. | Being Implemented |
| CPD Courses for residents | Consider making online CPD courses available to Lambourn residents as part of a commitment to lifelong learning and practical upskilling. Free access could be offered through a simple application process, ensuring places are allocated fairly and to those most likely to benefit. Courses might cover digital skills, business development, safeguarding, health and wellbeing or vocational subjects. For residents less confident with technology, supported sessions could be provided, with a facilitator and laptop available to guide participants through the material step by step. This approach would promote inclusion, boost employability and confidence, and encourage a culture of continuous learning across the community. | In Evaluation |
| Credit union or community banking services | Consider partnering with a credit union or community banking provider to offer regular outreach sessions in Lambourn. Local access to ethical savings accounts, affordable loans and budgeting advice could make a real difference to residents who may struggle with mainstream banking or high cost credit. In village support would encourage financial confidence, promote responsible borrowing and help build long term resilience. Costs would be limited to mileage and, if needed, modest premises hire, creating a practical and community focused financial support option. | Not a Current Priority |
| Drug and Addiction Counselling | Consider introducing a monthly outreach clinic in Lambourn in partnership with VIA, the commissioned provider of drug and addiction counselling services for West Berkshire. Holding sessions locally would provide discreet, professional advice and one to one support in an accessible setting. This could encourage earlier engagement and reduce stigma. Costs would be limited to mileage and, if necessary, modest premises hire, making it a practical and compassionate addition to local support services. | In Evaluation |
| Drugs Awareness Support | Consider running drug awareness workshops for local stakeholders, building on the successful sessions delivered in 2024. Hosted by the West Berkshire drug and addiction team, these workshops could provide up to date information on local trends, warning signs, safeguarding responsibilities and effective early intervention. Bringing together schools, youth groups, employers and community leaders would strengthen shared understanding and coordinated responses. Regular training would support prevention, improve confidence in handling concerns and help protect young people and vulnerable residents across the Valley. | In Evaluation |
| DWP Outreach Clinics | Consider inviting Jobcentre Plus to provide outreach sessions in Lambourn to support residents seeking employment. Regular pop up advice clinics could offer help with job searches, CV writing, application forms and interview preparation. Local access would make practical support easier for those without transport or who may feel uncertain about travelling to larger towns. Personal guidance can build confidence, improve employability and help individuals re enter the workforce more quickly. Bringing services into the village would strengthen opportunity, reduce isolation and ensure residents have fair access to professional employment advice. | In Evaluation |
| Dyslexia Assitance | Consider assessing demand for dyslexia support outside school hours for children in Lambourn. Many young people benefit from tailored, structured help with literacy, organisation and study strategies, but access can be limited beyond the school day. A short survey or community consultation would show how many families would use such support and at what times. It would also help identify the age ranges and types of assistance needed. Once demand is understood, investigate organisations or specialist tutors who could deliver sessions locally, either through schools, community venues or online, to make targeted help more accessible. | Not a Current Priority |
| Ear Wax Removal | Consider offering a local earwax removal pop up clinic focused particularly on older residents in the Lambourn Valley. Excess earwax can cause discomfort, hearing loss, dizziness and social isolation, yet many struggle to access timely treatment. Providing safe microsuction or irrigation by trained professionals within the community would improve hearing, confidence and overall wellbeing. A locally delivered service reduces travel barriers, supports independence and ensures residents receive prompt, high quality care close to home. | In Evaluation |
| First Aid Courses | Following the success of the first aid courses delivered in the first half of 2025, consider establishing at least one professionally led course each year for the wider community. Expanding access to accredited adult and paediatric first aid training will significantly increase the number of Lambourn residents equipped to respond confidently in an emergency. In a rural village, where immediate medical assistance may take time to arrive, early intervention can be critical. Regular courses would build practical skills, strengthen community resilience and provide reassurance to families, employers and voluntary groups. Investing in training is a straightforward, preventative step that could ultimately save lives. | Funding Applied For |
| First Responders | Consider reinstating Community First Responders in the Lambourn Valley to strengthen local emergency resilience. Trained volunteers can attend life threatening incidents within minutes, often arriving before an ambulance in rural areas where response times may be longer. Early intervention in cases such as cardiac arrest, stroke, choking or severe bleeding significantly improves survival and recovery outcomes. Beyond emergency care, first responders build confidence, community connection and shared responsibility, ensuring that neighbours are supported swiftly when every second matters. | In Evaluation |
| Friendship Benches | Consider installing friendship benches in key locations around the village could provide simple, visible invitations for people to pause, sit and talk. Positioned near the shops, surgery, church, Almshouses and along popular walking routes, they would offer welcoming spaces for connection. Clear signage could explain that anyone sitting there is open to conversation. In a rural community, where loneliness can be hidden, small gestures matter. | Being Implemented |
| Fun Healthy Eating Classes | Consider partnering with local charities and community groups to run practical classes for young people on healthy eating and basic food preparation. Sessions could include planning balanced meals, understanding nutrition and cooking simple, affordable dishes from scratch. Hands on experience would build confidence, encourage healthier choices and develop important life skills. Working together would share expertise and strengthen community ties, while helping young people establish positive habits that support long term wellbeing. | In Evaluation |
| Guitar Club | Consider starting a Lambourn Valley Guitar Club as an informal, welcoming group for players of all ages and abilities. Beginners could learn basic chords and rhythm, while more experienced players could develop technique, confidence and performance skills. Musically, the club would improve coordination, listening, memory and creativity. Socially, it would bring people together across generations, build friendships and provide a relaxed outlet after work or school. | In Evaluation |
| Lambourn Branded Clothing | Consider developing a range of Lambourn branded clothing to help foster a stronger sense of identity and pride within the Valley. Items such as sweatshirts, caps and jackets featuring a simple, distinctive design could be sold through local outlets or at community events. Beyond creating visibility, the initiative could generate modest income for local projects. Branded clothing encourages belonging, promotes the village beyond its boundaries and helps residents feel part of something shared and distinctive. | Being Implemented |
| Lambourn Imagination Library | Reintroduce the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library across the Lambourn area to support early years literacy and give every child aged 0 to 5 the opportunity to develop a lifelong love of reading. The scheme provides children with high quality age appropriate books delivered directly to their homes each month, helping to strengthen language development, school readiness and family engagement with learning. Although previous support through West Berkshire Council has now ended and new registrations are currently unable to join, generous funding from the Lambourn Church of England School House Trust offers an opportunity to continue and expand this valuable initiative for local families. Beyond literacy alone, the programme helps build confidence, curiosity and stronger connections between children, parents and the wider community during the most important early years of development. | Up and Running |
| Lambourn Valley History Trail | Consider creating a Lambourn Valley History Trail using discreet signage and QR codes linked to short audio recordings about key landmarks. Residents and visitors could scan codes to hear engaging stories about the Valley of the Racehorse, its heritage, people and traditions. The trail would promote pride in local identity, support tourism and provide an educational resource for schools and families. Accessible and low cost, it would bring history to life in a modern, interactive way. | Being Implemented |
| Laundrette | Consider exploring whether a small community laundrette or wash point could be established in Lambourn. Since the closure of the village laundrette, there have been no public washing facilities, which can create real difficulty for residents without their own machines or those facing temporary hardship. Coin or card operated machines in a central, accessible location could meet a practical need while supporting dignity and independence. Such a facility could also encourage informal social interaction, particularly for older residents, young workers and those in shared or temporary accommodation. | In Evaluation |
| Mental health drop-in sessions | Consider partnering with West Berkshire mental health services and a specialist charity to offer free, confidential counselling sessions in Lambourn. Local access would reduce travel barriers and encourage earlier support for residents experiencing anxiety, depression or crisis. Clear referral pathways to NHS services would ensure joined up care. Strengthening local provision is closely linked to suicide prevention, as timely intervention and reduced isolation can save lives. | In Evaluation |
| Parenting support and early years advice | Consider partnering with West Berkshire Council, a relevant family support charity and Lambourn Surgery to provide parenting advice sessions for parents of young children. Local workshops could cover early development, routines, behaviour, health and emotional wellbeing, offering practical guidance in a supportive setting. Accessible village based provision would make it easier for families to attend and seek help early. Working collaboratively would ensure professional expertise, clear referral pathways and joined up support, strengthening confidence and outcomes for both parents and children. | Up and Running |
| Police Pop Up Advice Sessions | Consider inviting the local community policing team to hold occasional pop up advice sessions in Lambourn. Informal drop in events would allow residents to discuss concerns, receive crime prevention guidance and seek reassurance on issues such as rural theft or online safety. A visible local presence helps build trust and strengthen community relationships. Costs would be minimal, mainly coordination and venue use, with clear benefits for safety and communication. | In Evaluation |
| Pop Up Second Hand Clothes Shop | Consider launching a community run pop up second hand clothes shop in the Lambourn Valley, focused on good quality clothing and affordable school uniforms. Hosted periodically in a village hall or community space, it would provide families with access to well cared for items at modest prices, easing the cost of living while promoting sustainability. A dedicated section for school uniforms would be particularly valuable, allowing parents to buy, swap or donate items as children grow. Volunteers could help sort and display stock, creating a welcoming atmosphere. | In Evaluation |
| Printer Cartrige Recycling | Consider setting up a village drop off point for used printer cartridges, making recycling simple and accessible for residents and local businesses. By partnering with a charity or specialist organisation that already runs cartridge recycling schemes, collections could be managed efficiently and responsibly. Many schemes also generate donations for good causes, creating an additional community benefit. This small initiative would reduce landfill waste, promote environmental awareness and provide a practical way for households to contribute positively to sustainability efforts. | Being Implemented |
| Repair Cafe | Consider launching a Repair Café for the Lambourn Valley, initially as a satellite pop up in partnership with an established group such as the Shrivenham Repair Café or a similar initiative in Newbury or Hungerford. The aim would be simple: to help residents repair everyday appliances and household items rather than discard them. Volunteer fixers could assist with small electrical goods, clothing, bikes and basic furniture, extending product life, saving money and reducing waste. Hosting occasional sessions in a village hall would test demand before establishing a regular programme. | Being Implemented |
| Running Club | Consider launching a Lambourn Valley running club as a simple but powerful way to strengthen community life. A social running club brings people together across ages and abilities, encouraging regular exercise, improving physical and mental wellbeing, and reducing isolation. It creates a welcoming space where friendships form naturally through shared activity, conversation, and mutual support. Such a club can build local pride, make use of the beautiful surrounding countryside, and provide structure and motivation for those who might struggle to exercise alone. It can also act as a gateway to wider community engagement, linking residents with other local groups, events, and volunteering opportunities. | Up and Running |
| Share Community | Consider developing a Lambourn Valley share community based on mutual support rather than money. Residents could offer skills, equipment or time in exchange for help from others, creating a simple barter style network. For example, someone might lend tools, provide gardening help or offer language lessons, receiving assistance in return when needed. A clear, organised system would ensure fairness and trust. Such a model would strengthen relationships, reduce costs, minimise waste and build resilience. Above all, it would encourage a culture of cooperation, where neighbours actively support one another and value shared contribution over financial exchange. | Being Implemented |
| Signposting Cards | Produce a set of business card sized signposting cards that direct people to key local services such as the Food Bank, the Shed, West Berkshire Council services, SNG support and others. The idea is that professionals at the pharmacy and GP surgery can hand a relevant card directly to an individual, offering a simple and discreet way of guiding them to the right support. This approach is often more effective than posters or leaflets, as it feels more personal, targeted and comes from a trusted source. | Up and Running |
| Singing Group | Consider establishing a community singing group for all ages and abilities, focused simply on singing for enjoyment rather than performance. Open to everyone, it would offer a welcoming space to come together regularly, learn songs and build confidence in a relaxed atmosphere. The social benefits include reducing loneliness, strengthening intergenerational connections, improving mental wellbeing, encouraging self expression, building friendships and fostering a shared sense of belonging and pride within the Lambourn Valley community. | In Evaluation |
| Small electrical appliance recycling scheme | Consider establishing a small electrical equipment recycling drop off point in Lambourn, similar to the scheme in East Garston. A dedicated bin in a central, accessible location would allow residents to dispose of small appliances such as kettles, toasters and chargers responsibly. Partnering with a specialist recycling organisation would ensure safe collection and proper processing. This simple initiative would reduce landfill, prevent environmental harm and make sustainable disposal convenient for everyone in the village. | Being Implemented |
| Suicide Prevention Workshops | Consider holding suicide prevention workshops at times accessible to those in employment, such as early evenings or weekends. Providing practical training in recognising warning signs, initiating supportive conversations and signposting to appropriate services can increase confidence, reduce stigma and potentially save lives. Such workshops strengthen community resilience, support mental wellbeing and foster a culture where people feel able to seek help. Delivered by qualified professionals, the sessions would equip residents, employers and volunteers with skills to respond appropriately and compassionately. | Funding Applied For |
| Support for families affected by those with addiction issues | Consider developing local support opportunities for families, friends and loved ones affected by addiction issues in partnership with Still Here. Whilst much attention is rightly focused on the individual experiencing addiction, those around them are often left feeling isolated, overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for help. Providing accessible, non judgemental peer support within the Lambourn Valley would help families build resilience, reduce loneliness and better understand the challenges they are facing. In a rural community where transport and access to services can be significant barriers, local support and outreach could play an important role in ensuring that nobody feels they are facing the impact of addiction alone. | In Evaluation |
| Support for Parents of SEN Children | Consider establishing dedicated support sessions for parents of children with special educational needs. These sessions could provide practical guidance on navigating education, health and social care systems, understanding Education, Health and Care Plans, and accessing local services. Bringing parents together would reduce isolation, encourage peer support and strengthen confidence in advocating for their children. Facilitated by experienced professionals, the initiative would promote early intervention, improve outcomes for children and foster a more inclusive and informed community. | In Evaluation |
| Tech help drop-ins | Providing regular technology assistance clinics would offer practical support to residents who need help configuring phones, laptops and computers. As more services move online, digital confidence has become essential for banking, healthcare appointments, benefits and staying in touch with family. Yet many people feel excluded or frustrated by unfamiliar technology. Friendly, drop in sessions led by knowledgeable volunteers or professionals would create a patient, supportive environment where no question is too small. | In Evaluation |
| Walking Group | Consider launching a Lambourn Valley walking group as an inclusive way to bring the community together. A social walking group offers gentle exercise suitable for all ages and abilities, supporting physical health, mental wellbeing, and reducing loneliness. It provides a relaxed environment for conversation, helping people build friendships and feel more connected. Regular walks encourage residents to explore and appreciate the local countryside while establishing a shared routine and sense of belonging. The group can also act as a welcoming entry point into community life, linking people to other activities, events, and volunteering, strengthening the social fabric of the village. | Up and Running |
| Walking Group | Consider establishing a Lambourn Valley walking group, open to all ages and abilities. Regular walks along local footpaths and bridleways would promote physical health, improving fitness, balance and cardiovascular wellbeing. Just as importantly, walking together encourages conversation and connection, helping to reduce isolation and strengthen friendships. It offers a gentle, accessible way for newcomers and long standing residents alike to meet others. Seasonal themed walks, heritage trails or nature focused outings could add variety and local interest. | Up and Running |
| Work Experience Placements | Consider encouraging local businesses to offer one week work experience placements to local teenagers. Structured placements provide young people with insight into the world of work, help them build confidence and develop practical skills such as communication, time management and teamwork. For employers, placements create stronger links with the community, nurture future talent and enhance social value commitments. A coordinated approach would ensure appropriate safeguarding, clear expectations and meaningful experiences for both students and businesses. | Not a Current Priority |
| Young Carer Support | Consider creating local support sessions in Lambourn for young carers, providing practical assistance, respite and access to qualified counselling. Partnering with a specialist charity would ensure safe, professional support tailored to young people managing caring responsibilities. Although West Berkshire offers a Young Carers Project in Newbury during weekday hours, this can be difficult to access from Lambourn. After school or weekend sessions in the village would remove barriers and offer timely, compassionate help. | In Evaluation |
| Young Parent Support | Consider establishing facilitated support meetings specifically for young parents in Lambourn. Led by a trained professional, the group would provide practical guidance on parenting, child development and wellbeing, alongside space for mutual encouragement and shared experience. Young parents can face particular pressures, including isolation, financial strain and balancing education or work. A structured, welcoming setting would help build confidence and supportive peer networks. A brief needs assessment should be carried out to confirm demand, preferred timings and an appropriate venue. | Up and Running |
| Youth Career Guidance | Consider partnering with the Department for Work and Pensions and a specialist youth charity to provide career guidance, CV writing support and skills planning workshops for young people in Lambourn. Sessions could cover applications, interview preparation and exploring training or apprenticeship routes. This could be linked to local employers offering short work placements or shadowing opportunities, giving young people real insight into different careers. Coordinating with Jobcentre outreach sessions would create a joined up pathway into employment, building confidence and strengthening connections between young residents and local businesses. | In Evaluation |
