In an effort to prepare for winter demand for health care, the Department for Health is distributing additional funds to commissioning groups to support A&E departments. A first tranche of 250 million was distributed to groups using A&E departments considered under greatest risk of breaching targets .South Reading and Berkshire West (using A&E at the Royal Berks Hospital) were not included in this group. A second tranche of 150 million is being distributed to 157 further CCGs to support winter emergencies.

The four CCGs in Berkshire West didn't have their Pioneer bid selected by the Department of Health, according to Health Service Journal. Pioneer status brings non-financial benefits to help the integration of social and NHS care in the CCG areas. 4 selected bids of the winning 14 were from London, double the proportionate number, none from the Thames Valley.. The winning sites were

We will be meeting between 6pm and 7:30pm on Wednesday, 27th November at the University Health Centre, 9, Northcourt Avenue, Reading RG2 7HE The main feature will be a discussion on our Terms of Reference , plus items on communication and ideas for next year's programme, plus a short look at the . RNIB's recent survey on the impact of capacity shortfalls on eye health

We will be meeting between 6pm and 7:30pm on Wednesday, 27th November at the University Health Centre, 9, Northcourt Avenue, Reading RG2 7HE The main feature will be a discussion on our Terms of Reference , plus items on communication and ideas for next year's programme, plus a short look at the . RNIB's recent survey on the impact of capacity shortfalls on eye health

A survey of staff working in eye clinics across England by the RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind) found that 41% of respondents were concerned that some patients were losing their sight unnecessarily through delays in treatment and in follow up care due to capacity problems. The RNIB summary and report found that demand for treatment in eye clinics was rising fast with the ageing population and that many staff members felt that future capacity would not keep up with demand.