Our latest news

Christine with friends

Christine’s Story: Finding Confidence and Connection

Christine, supported by Denise and Sarah, is rediscovering her confidence. Enjoying bingo, days out, shopping and meeting up with friends, while staying active and connected in her community.

Person moving boxes1

Helping People Make Informed Decisions About Where They Live

Big decisions need clear information. Our recent housing options session created a friendly space for people and families to ask questions and hear real experiences about moving into supported living.

Team meeting and chatting colleagues

Good Teams Start With Care and Connection

Our series continues. From everyday conversations to shared celebrations, we’re highlighting real stories that show how care and connection create strong, supportive teams across Optalis.

The Travel Ambassadors

Optalis Supported Employment Travel Ambassador Programme among projects short­l­is­ted for national awards

Optalis Travel Ambassador Programme has been shortlisted for a 2026 Community Rail Award, recognising its impact empowering adults with disabilities through paid roles and accessible travel.

Carol concert organisation group

Spreading Holiday Cheer at the Optalis Carol Concert

Focussed Friends presenting nappy donation

Focussed Friends Donate to Support Babies in Buscot Ward

Focussed Friends, a group from Optalis Wokingham Community Lives, raised £256 and donated over 2,000 nappies and handmade blankets to BIBS, the charity for Royal Berkshire Hospital’s neonatal unit.

Year in review 4

Optalis 2025 year in review

2025 was a year of growth and impact. We expanded services, welcomed new people, and created spaces where those we support and our teams can thrive. Here are the milestones that made it special.

Ability Catering at station event

Serving Up Skills and Festive Treats

Our Ability Catering team kicked off a busy festive season at the Railways 200 celebration at Windsor & Eton Riverside Stations 166th Birthday.

SES teams

Good teams start with a culture of respect, collaboration, and support for each other

In our latest feature, we’re celebrating the Supported Employment Service (SES) team. Their strength? A culture of respect, collaboration, and support for each other and the people they serve.

Bowling Photo 1

Bowling Tournament Marks End of an Era at Bracknell

People from across Community Lives came together for a final celebration before Hollywood Bowl in Bracknell closed its doors.