A Reading homeless charity has been shortlisted for prestigious award.

Launchpad, which aims to prevent homelessness, is in the running for a Thames Valley Business and Community Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Community.

The charity is up against 12 other organisations which have been shortlisted, and the finalist will be selected at a distinguished ceremony at The Hilton, Reading, on Thursday January 31.

Founded in 1979 by Reading University students, the charity started life as one of the town's first soup kitchens. It has developed over the years and now houses 100 people as well as supporting more than 400 every year.

Launchpad's chief executive, Ian Caren, said: "We house those that need it and provide tailored support programmes to help them with fundamental life skills, employment and ultimately into long-term accommodation.

"We believe life skills combined with a safe, clean home give people the very best chance of success.

"We are delighted to have been nominated for the Outstanding Contribution to the Community award, and to be shortlisted is a huge acknowledgement for the work we do at Launchpad.

"Winning would be the icing on the cake."

Jason McMahon, who works for the charity, has been shortlisted for a category of his own.

Jason had a successful career in commercial sales, but following redundancy, divorce and the death of his mother, his life took a different path.

After struggling for work, he applied for a six month maternity cover role at Launchpad and four years later he is now a permanent, full-time member of staff.

Working as Launchpad’s corporate partnerships manager, Jason visits businesses in and around Reading, speaking to more than 5,000 people every year to educate, inspire and raise support to help people have a second chance in life. He is up for a Lifetime of Achievement of the Year award.

"Soon after starting at Launchpad and hearing some of our clients' stories, I realised that we all can be so close to slipping into a sudden crisis - a change in circumstances, financial difficulties, affording a place to live," Jason said.

"It can so easily spital out of control."

“Launchpad has given me the stability and purpose I needed to move forward and have a better quality of life.

"In return, I can hopefully change perceptions and raise awareness of homelessness.

“Being recognised for such a prestigious Thames Valley award as a local boy is an honour.

"I have met amazing people who are all connected through Launchpad. This nomination recognises everyone who has inspired me on my journey and everyone at Launchpad who have helped thousands of people in Reading get their lives back on track.”