Enjoying a safe and happy Halloween

Halloween may be spooky but it doesn’t have to be scary. Planning to hand out treats this Halloween? Putting a pumpkin outside your front door is a great way to show trick-or-treaters they are welcome.

It's a simple idea that helps make Halloween enjoyable for everyone, including residents who may prefer not to take part. Take a look at our Community Wardens' short video for more Halloween tips and advice.

Government announces plans to progress with a mayoral strategic authority for the Thames Valley

Ambitions from council leaders across the Thames Valley to unlock economic, infrastructure and investment opportunities for the region are closer to being realised following the government’s announcement this week that the area has been placed on its programme for the creation of a new mayoral strategic authority.

A Thames Valley strategic authority will give local leaders more funding and control over areas like transport, skills and employment support, inward investment and affordable housing to deliver better on things that matter to residents across the region. Find out more about the announcement below and how proposals will continue to develop.

Are you an unpaid carer? Come along to a drop-in session next week

You may not think of yourself as a carer, but if you regularly support someone who couldn’t manage without help, you are one. This could be a family member, partner, friend or neighbour.

Join our new monthly drop-in sessions for unpaid carers, offering information, advice and support in a welcoming and informal setting. Whether you're new to caring or have been providing support for years, you can speak to the team about your situation, available services and a Carer's Assessment.

The first session takes place on Thursday 5 November from 10am to 11am at Maidenhead Town Hall and will then run on the first Thursday of every month. No booking is required.

Help your body fight flu

Flu spreads more easily in winter when we spend more time indoors together, and it can cause serious illness.

It’s important to get protected, even if you’ve had a flu vaccine or been ill before as immunity fades over time and viruses change each year.

If you’re vaccinated, you’re likely to have milder symptoms and recover faster. Certain groups can still get the flu vaccine free.

Making some noise at our libraries

New Early Years Music Sessions are launching at Maidenhead Library from Monday 2 November. Led by a professional musician and pianist from Berkshire Music Trust, these free weekly sessions are packed with songs, nursery rhymes, movement and rhythm, giving young children and their parents or carers the chance to explore music together in a fun and relaxed setting.

Adults can enjoy the popular Sing Along at the Library sessions at Windsor Library, featuring live piano accompaniment and a mix of well-loved songs and old favourites in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The library also hosts Music and Memories, a monthly dementia-friendly session offering singing, conversation, refreshments and reminiscence in a supportive space for people living with dementia, carers, family members and anyone looking for company.

What’s on

There are lots of ways to meet others, try something new, or give your time to local causes across the borough. Our Community Information Hub is a simple way to discover what’s happening near you.

Our volunteering page also brings together useful links to help you find opportunities across the borough.

The Visit Windsor website is the official guide to the Windsor, Maidenhead and Ascot area so whether you are looking for family-friendly things to do, unique events to enjoy with your friends or inspiration for a romantic break, you are sure to find exactly what you need.

Community Spotlight

Say hello to Ellie from Sip & Conquer - Board Game Café in Maidenhead.

For Ellie, the best part of living and working in the Royal Borough is the chance to connect with the people around her - it’s those small interactions that can build a big sense of community.

Watch the video below: