The Works & The National Literacy Trust

We are working in partnership with The Works to empower more children and families across the UK to discover a shared love of reading, writing and playing together. 

Reading, chatting and playing with children helps build their communication skills from the very start. But, last year, over 185,000 five-year-olds started primary school without the communication skills they need to thrive. 

When children enjoy reading, it boosts their confidence, wellbeing and success at school and opens the door to a brighter future. But, 2 in 3 children and young people do not enjoy reading during their free time. This is the lowest level we’ve recorded in nearly 20 years. 

The decline in reading for pleasure hits the most disadvantaged communities the hardest. In areas of high poverty, 1 in 8 children don’t even have a single book of their own at home and these children are being left behind. Without a firm foundation in communication skills, their learning, confidence and wellbeing will suffer during their school days – and beyond.

Together we can support families and children with a wide range of accessible and inclusive books, activities and resources to support and inspire children’s reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. 

With your help, we’re helping more children and families change their story through the power of literacy.