Reading for pleasure is one of the biggest indicators of a child’s future success, yet almost one million children in the UK do not own a single book. 1 in 7 state primary schools in the UK do not have a library or library space. With an estimated nineteen-thousand adults in the UK struggling to pay for everyday living, the cost-of-living crisis has only aggravated this issue of book poverty, further widening the attainment gap, which is already at its highest level in a decade.

We recruit and train volunteers to deliver regular, child-led reading sessions, supporting children from disadvantaged areas of London to become keen, confident readers. Each week during term time, our volunteers visit families at home or online, sharing books tailored to each child's unique skills and interests and encouraging parents/carers to actively participate in sessions. Through this consistent, personalised support, families are empowered to embrace reading for pleasure long-term.