Here at West Berkshire Cruse we were delighted that Anne Diamond joined us to celebrate the approaching 30th anniversary of the formation of our branch. Here's what Anne has to say:

The author― Jane Wilson-Howarth, said “The few certainties in our existences are pain, death and bereavement.”   I believe, though, that the work of Cruse Bereavement Care adds one more certainty – support!  For those many millions of us who have been bereaved we know that nobody can feel our pain – but the knowledge that others are there – wanting to help – can be a comfort.  I’m delighted to be supporting the excellent work of Cruse and their devoted volunteers.  Anne Diamond, Health Campaigner and Broadcaster

We welcomed 70 guests to the event which took place at Shaw House in Newbury and Anne gave us a very interesting and detailed talk entitled 'Life on the turn of a sixpence' in which she shared the story of her own bereavement through cot death amongst other things. Anne proved to be a great ambassador for our cause and we received a great amount of positive feedback from many of our guests.

We would like to thank all the individuals and organisations who joined us for coming along and for the support we have received over the years. Special thanks go to Greenham Common Trust for their continued financial support, West Berkshire Council and various local organisations who have helped us financially, as well as Camp Hopson Funerals for their massive contribution towards                                                   the refreshments at the event.

What a wonderful surprise to receive a letter from Alice to tell us that we were her chosen charity for donation. Alice makes beautiful personalised bears for any occassion and all profits are donated to charity. You can see Alice's work and like her on her Face Book page by following this link.

https://www.facebook.com/AlicesTeddyBears

Thank you Alice!!

On Thursday 10th December 2015 we were delighted to attend an awards ceremony at West Berkshire Council. Garry Poulson, director of Volunteer Centre West Berkshire, had nominated West Berkshire Cruse for the community awards given by the council each year. It was with much pleasure that we were recognised as winners of this award jointly with Eight Bells for Mental Health, a very worthy cause who offer daily drop in sessions where many types of social activities can be enjoyed.

Our branch chair enjoing the celebration with one of our recently retired volunteers.

Branch Chair Sally Hunt accepted the award from Council Chairman Peter Argyl.

Once again West Berkshire Cruse teamed up with Berkshire Carers, plus many other organisations, during Carers Week in June. Sainsburys kindly provided space to promote awareness.

A huge thank you to Sainsbury's for helping us to raise an amazing £5000 as their charity partner.  

Thanks to all who have contributed with donations and their time.

West Berkshire Cruse were nominated by Garry Poulson of the Volunteer Centre for a Queen's award for voluntary service. Three of our volunteers attended the nominee's reception at the agricultural college in Maidenhead on March 27th 2015, where certificates were presented by West Berks Lord Lieutenant James Puxley. 

Sing for Charity event at Sainsbury's - £79 was collected in the two hour slot during which the choir 'Singing for Fun' sang to raise money for their nominated charity, West Berks Cruse.  Many thanks to all!!

On Saturday 6th December Cruse volunteers spent the day in Sainsbury's helping with bag packing and being on hand to chat! This was one of the three days committed to being in store during the year of being Sainsbury's Newbury charity partner - another £366 was raised - many thanks to all!  Please visit our gallery for more images from the day.

Fabulous Fiendish Staff at Sainsbury's continue to support Cruse as their Charity Partner and raise an amazing £540.30 from their Halloween fundraising day.  Thanks to all contributors! 

A well supported day at Sainsbury's raises £190.86 for West Berkshire Cruse Bereavement Care - a massive thanks to the staff and volunteers who were there to promote the services of our branch and increase our awareness to the local community.  Many thanks to all contributions received.