Discover our community identities and broaden awareness by using the West Berkshire Observatory for information and data about the events celebrated in October.

3 October 2023: World Habitat Day – This is recognised by the United Nations to reflect on the state of towns and cities, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. The Place Summary on the Observatory provides a narrative summary on housing needs in the borough. The Housing report gives data on household structures, the tenure on dwellings and the condition of housing in West Berkshire.

10 October 2023: World Mental Health Day – This is recognised by the World Health Organization to raise global awareness and understanding of mental health. West Berkshire’s Mental Health Needs Assessment 2022, available on the Needs Assessments and Further Resources page, examines data and provides an analysis of local needs, which can inform strategies and policies to improve the mental health of our population.

October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month – All women aged 50 up to their 71st birthday are invited by the NHS for breast screening every three years. Find data on breast cancer screening coverage using the Data Explorer function.

October: Black History Month – Use the Population & Demographics map to visualise the population distribution by ethnicity in the Borough.

October: International Walk to School Month – The Department for Transport publishes statistics about the time and mode of transport used for journeys to key services, including education. Find out about local data using the Data Explorer function.