I am running the 2023 Royal Parks Half Marathon and raising money for Learn To Love To Read, a local charity in the borough where I live and my daughter goes to school, that supports children who are finding learning to read challenging or who are at risk of starting school poorly prepared for learning to read. It also supports families, carers, children’s centres, and schools, to help kids at the start of their reading journeys and to help foster a love of reading.   

Research from the National Literacy Trust shows the impact that the cost-of-living crisis is having on children’s literacy: ‘We know that experiencing poverty and financial strain impacts children’s literacy – with families not being able to afford books and having less time and energy to spend reading, writing, and talking to their children at home.’

Not to mention the impacts of the pandemic in overall attainment levels, with reading ability levels being lower following the lockdowns. 

The statistics around children’s reading and writing ability and, more importantly their love of literacy, are frightening:

In 2022, 25% of children left primary school unable to read at the government's required standard. 1 in 4 children aged 5 to 8 years say they don't enjoy reading.

As a teacher,  a mum, and an avid bookworm, I know how important developing a love of reading is for future success and I also know how hard it is for teachers and parents to do it alone. I’m so grateful to Learn To Love To Read for their important work  

Please support me and the kids in my area by donating to this brilliant cause. Thank you!