Torch is a community help hub set up and run by volunteers from local churches across Reading with the aim of providing a helping hand to those who otherwise cannot get help and tend to fall through the gaps of existing provision.

This is a completely free service. All volunteers are DBS cleared and where possible come from the local community near the client. Self or agency referrals to Torch can be made by phone, email or via the website contact form where they will be triaged by a team of Coordinators who select the appropriate volunteer from across the churches.

Torch is a project under the auspices of CityLife Community Projects (CLCP), registered charity No. 1117112, and a company registered in England and Wales No. 05881513. The management team at Torch is drawn from among the leaders of the churches involved and they report to the trustees of CLCP.

Urgent help

Are you in urgent need of anything?
We offer short term support for anyone in need or unable to get out. For example, we can collect your shopping, pick up a prescription for you, or connect you with another local charity or organisation for longer term help.

Enhanced wellbeing

Would you like someone to chat or pray with you?
We can help provide friendly support to improve your emotional and mental wellbeing, such as chatting or praying with you.

Confidence building

Can we help build your confidence to get back on your feet?
We can help you get out of the house for social re-engagement or to attend appointments, etc. 

Advocacy

Do you need support when attending an important appointment?
We can go with you to critical appointments to support you in stressful times of anxiety and uncertainty.

Practical tasks

Can we help with practical tasks (basic DIY/gardening)?
We’d love to help with small jobs around the house or garden that you’re unable to do yourself. If the job is too big for us, we can point you other charities or organisations that will be able to help.

Personal help

Do you need help with CVs, form filling or paperwork? 
We can help with the aspects of every day life, such as writing CVs, filling out forms or completing paperwork. 

Also run Wellbeing Cafes Wellbeing Cafes – Torch Help Hub (torchhub.org.uk)