The Downland Practice - Social Prescribing

14/01/2026

Ok chaps! Here’s your chance to have your say and help shape a healthier future for men. 💪
Join the movement by completing the survey — things can’t improve without YOUR voice!

06/01/2026

GENTS BREAKFAST CLUB - IMPORTANT - VENUE CHANGE FOR JANUARY - HILLIERS GARDEN CENTRE - Rosemary & Thyme Restaurant

On the first Wednesday of every month at 10.30am, a group of lovely local gents (and a few not-so-local ones!) meet up. For January we will be meeting at Hilliers Garden Centre, but aim to return to the Red Lion In Chieveley again from February .
There’s always plenty of banter, good company, and often the bonus of an odd classic car or two… or three!
Everyone is very welcome, so please do come and join us — we’d love to see you there.
If you’re unsure about coming along on your own, just let me know and I’ll happily meet you in the car park and introduce you around.
📍 Hilliers Garden Centre - Rosemary & Thyme Restaurant - 10.30am

05/01/2026

Feeling isolated this winter?
If you’re over 65 and finding these long, chilly days a bit lonely, why not check out Fairclose?
There are lots of great activities happening, and you’ll enjoy not only the warm, welcoming atmosphere but also the cosy heating—perfect for this nippy weather!
Why not go along and make new friends while staying warm and active.

29/12/2025

I was recently sent this moving story written by a Yuliia, a Ukrainian engineer and a proud mother of two children. It stopped me in my steps - If you do nothing else today, please take the time to read this!

Letter to the Guardian

05/08/2025

Could You Spare a Little Time to Make a Big Difference?

Are you retired or have some spare time during the week?
Are you a car owner?
Would you like to give back to your local community?

The Downland Volunteer Group Needs You!

We’re currently looking for volunteer drivers to support our patients by providing transport to essential medical appointments. This is a vital service that many in our community rely on — but demand is growing, and we urgently need more volunteers to keep up.

Even if you can only offer one trip a month, your help would be hugely appreciated.

🚗 Expenses are covered
🕰️ You choose when you're available
❤️ Your time could make a real difference to someone’s life

Interested? Want to find out more?
Please call 01635 578394 during office hours (Monday to Friday, 9.30am – 11.30am)

Thank you for considering becoming part of something that really matters.

07/07/2025

🌞 School Holidays Can Be Tough – Let’s Help Together! 🌞

The school holidays can be a real challenge for families on low incomes, with extra pressure on food and essentials.

📉 Sadly, West Berks Foodbank. has seen a decline in donations recently — but together, we can change that.

💚 Every donation, no matter how small, can make a huge difference to a local family in need.

🛍️ Donation Drop-Off Points:
📍 Chieveley Surgery
📍 Compton Surgery

If you're able to give, even just a tin or two, it all adds up. Let’s fill those boxes and show our community we care.

🙏 A heartfelt thank you to our regular donors — your kindness is truly amazing! ❤️

Can you help our Hungry Holidays initiative? Every little donation will help us to make a huge difference.

You can donate quickly and easily via The Good Exchange - https://app.thegoodexchange.com/project/20853/west-berks-foodbank/hungry-holidays-2025

Thank you for your support 💚

24/06/2025

Urgent Appeal: West Berkshire Foodbank Donations Needed

We are urgently seeking donations for the West Berks Foodbank.

Your support can make a real difference to local individuals and families in need. Donations can be dropped off at both Chieveley and Compton Surgeries.

Please give what you can—every item helps, and your generosity matters more than ever.

Thank you so much for your support

Ambient Sponge Pudding
Cereal Bars
Long Life Juice
Tinned Fruit
Anti-bac spray
Tinned Meat Meals Like Spagbol, Curry, Stew
Non bio washing power/tablets
UHT Milk Full Fat or Semi Skimmed

They currently have a good stock of Pasta