Westmead provides a much- valued service says Healthwatch Wokingham

The Healthwatch visiting team saw how the centre which is located in Rances Lane, Wokingham, provides life skills and opportunities for adults with physical disabilities (primarily those who have an acquired disability, MS or a stroke.) They also provide services to other members of the community, for example, those who are visually impaired.

In their report on the Service, Healthwatch said, “As well as the provision of meaningful activities such as art, cookery, IT sessions and trips out, it also provides something crucial - a place where friendships can be formed and well-being enhanced.”

HealthWatch quoted very positive feedback from people using the service reporting that they were “unanimous in their praise”.

Many of the service users spoke about how visiting Westmead Centre meant they were not isolated. One comment was, “I came here almost totally dependent and now I am independent.” Another said, “If I didn’t come here I would not have anybody to talk to, I don’t have any friends and the only family I have is a brother that lives two hours drive away.”

Optalis Managing Director, Mette Le Jakobsen said, “We welcome this report and appreciate the feedback. Westmead is an important social centre in the community offering ways to reduce social isolation and increase independence which is central to the role of rehabilitation.”

Read the full report here