In September 2023 our research revealed that reading enjoyment among children and young people hit the lowest we have ever recorded. Together with our partners, we're working hard to change the story. Our next reading report will be released in September and over the coming weeks we will share how our partnership with Arts Council England and publishers is promoting the benefits of reading enjoyment across the country. The National Literacy Trust is proud to celebrate the ongoing impact of Arts Council England (ACE) and the publishing sector’s investment in 14 of our Literacy Hubs across England. Launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, this collaboration leveraged our unique place-based approach and the generosity of the publishing sector to improve literacy levels in disadvantaged communities through literature. We focused on supporting families disproportionately affected by lockdowns in 14 of England's most disadvantaged and diverse towns and cities with the lowest reading levels. Our local teams working alongside our national team and publishers were ambitious. Together, we developed a national network of place-based local campaigns known as #ConnectingStories. These community-owned initiatives aimed to support literacy by levelling up access to high-quality literary activities. Inspired by the #LetsCreate Outcomes framework, our core approach centred around a calendar of community-driven reader development and creative writing activities. Activities celebrated the diverse communities that make up these local areas to foster a greater sense of community and cultural ownership in our work. The diversity of artists and organisations we collaborate with continues today. ACE funding played a pivotal role in mobilising a unified national reader development campaign. Designed and delivered in partnership with communities, the campaign benefited from cross-sectoral partnerships (both cultural and non-cultural) and a unique alliance of publishers committed to supporting these communities. ACE's investment has been transformative for our organisation. We transitioned from a London-centric model, to empowering our local teams to become decision-makers for the National Literacy Trust within their communities and across the country. Stay tuned for local success stories from across the country.
Well done! So important to reach the communities who need it the most. The key to accessing the curriculum through enjoyment and curiosity.
It doesn't help that children are analysing wonderful books to such a point that it can kill the pleasure of just simply reading them.
I find this fascinating! The government are always saying how brilliant our young children are at reading now, but at what cost??
Becky Freeth
3w
This research is so important
Candice W.
3w
Love this
At Symmetric PR, we are deeply moved by the National Literacy Trust's efforts to improve literacy among disadvantaged communities through impactful partnerships. Your place-based initiatives and community-driven campaigns truly embody the spirit of inclusion and empowerment. We celebrate your success and look forward to the inspiring stories of transformation. Keep up the incredible work! #LiteracyForAll #CommunityEmpowerment #SymmetricPR