PROMISE Inclusion members can keep on singing, thanks to a grant from borough Lions.
Wokingham Lions Club celebrated their 50th anniversary last year by giving 50 Golden Awards of £500 to local charities and community organisations.
One of the grateful recipients was Promise Inclusion, a charity dedicated to supporting people with learning disabilities and/or autism, as well as their carers and families.
The Lion’s gift enabled the group to replace their ageing karaoke machine, and to buy extra microphones.
Development manager at Promise Inclusion Victoria Sheridan said: “For many people with learning disabilities and autism, social opportunities can be limited due to accessibility challenges and societal attitudes.
“Our karaoke group provides a safe and welcoming space where members can build confidence, develop friendships, and express themselves through music.
“With a reliable machine and a greater choice of songs, our members now have more opportunities to sing, have fun, and feel empowered.”
Promise Inclusion provides practical and emotional support for carers and offers social activities for siblings and those with learning disabilities and autism.
Uniquely in Wokingham, they provide a lifetime support service—helping individuals navigate key life transitions, from school to adulthood, while also running social and support groups for siblings and carers.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Lions for their Golden Award,” said Victoria.
“Our karaoke group is about so much more than just singing—it’s about inclusion, connection, and breaking down barriers.
“Thanks to the Lions’ support, we can continue to provide a space where our members feel valued, supported, and truly part of their community.
“Thank you, Lions, for making such a difference.”
Promise Inclusion’s karaoke group is open to anyone over the age of 18 who has a learning disability and/or autism.
The group meets at the Bradbury Centre, Wokingham, on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 7:30pm – 9:00pm.
For information, visit: promiseinclusion.org and wokinghamlions.org.uk, and for a free trial and to register interest, people should email: admin@promiseinclusion.org or call: 0300 777 8539.
