Helping Berkshire communities thrive for the next 50 years

Connecting Communities in Berkshire (CCB) is proud to launch our new Strategic Plan for 2026-2030, setting out an ambitious vision for stronger, more resilient and sustainable communities across Berkshire.

For more than 50 years, we have worked alongside local communities, helping people tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and shape their own futures. Our new strategy builds on this legacy while responding to the issues communities tell us matter most today: affordable housing, rising energy costs, social isolation, and access to essential services.

A vision for thriving communities

Our vision is simple: for all communities in Berkshire to be strong, resilient, sustainable, and able to take control of their own futures. [

We believe that most communities already have the knowledge, skills and passion they need to create positive change. Our role is to help unlock that potential, ensuring that nobody is disadvantaged because of where they live. When communities thrive, everyone benefits through better health, stronger connections, safer homes and greater opportunities.

Listening to what communities need

The development of our strategy has been shaped by what communities across Berkshire are telling us. Key concerns include:

• The shortage of affordable homes for local people and key workers.
• Increasing energy costs and fuel poverty.
• Growing social isolation and loneliness.
• Difficulties accessing healthcare and other essential services, particularly in rural areas.

Over the next five years, we will focus our efforts where we can make the greatest difference, working alongside residents, community groups, partners and funders to develop practical, long-term solutions.

Building on proven success

The strategy builds on the impact we are already delivering across Berkshire.

Through our 21st Century Halls programme, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, we are helping village halls become sustainable, accessible and energy-efficient community hubs. These vital spaces support local activities, services and connections that help communities flourish.

We will continue our work supporting affordable housing solutions, providing independent energy advice, tackling fuel poverty, promoting adult learning, and strengthening community networks across the county.

Five pillars for vibrant communities

At the heart of the strategy are five pillars that underpin thriving communities:

• Community – creating places where people feel connected and supported.
• Services – ensuring access to health, wellbeing and essential local services.
• Connections – improving social connections, transport and digital inclusion.
• Sustainability – supporting resilient communities and environmentally responsible solutions.
• Your Role – encouraging volunteering, participation and local leadership.

Together, these pillars provide a framework for creating communities where people can live well, participate fully and feel connected to the places they call home.

Working at every level

What makes CCB different is our ability to work across the whole community system. We combine trusted grassroots relationships with strategic partnerships and policy influence, ensuring local voices are heard and reflected in decision-making.

As part of the national ACRE network, we are also able to connect local issues with wider conversations about rural services, housing, energy and community development, helping Berkshire communities benefit from national expertise and influence.

Looking ahead

As we begin this new chapter, we remain committed to listening, learning and evolving. Over the coming months we will strengthen partnerships, develop innovative approaches to tackling isolation, and build on the success of our village halls programme to ensure community spaces remain vibrant and future-ready.

We look forward to working with our members, partners, funders and communities to turn this vision into reality.

Together, we can help Berkshire communities thrive. To read the full document please click here.