Diana’s story
I started volunteering because, having retired from full-time work, I found I had spare time.
Our Read Easy Coordinator had a twenty-year-old apprentice living outside our area who wished to be able to read, but the distance was prohibitive for face-to-face sessions. As the digital version was an option, both the Reader and I were happy to try coaching remotely.
The Coordinator introduced us online and we had a three-way chat to get to know each other. We discussed mutually suitable days and times for two sessions per week and agreed that I would send a WhatsApp to the Reader including a half-hour Zoom link.
The digital version of Turning Pages, the coaching programme that Read Easy provides, was very easy to use and share with my Reader on Zoom. I logged on to book one and after that it was all plain-sailing as the programme displays bite-size learning activities with plenty of repetition, after which a visual ‘pat-on-the-back’ is displayed, such as ‘Good progress!’ Concluding each exercise a cup appears with a ‘Congratulations’ message. These visual encouragements are moral boosting for the Reader and makes space for verbal encouragement from the ‘Coach’.
My Reader began nine months ago and is now completing Turning Pages Book 4, out of the series of 5. He has made excellent progress, and I have only acted as a facilitator for the programme. As we are both in our own homes no time is lost in settling into a venue, and it enables a private tuition session, ideal for any sensitive person. Shannon Trust’s Turning Pages Digital provides the complete structure. My Reader has a good memory and is well motivated to read fluently; it is extremely satisfying to hear him read sentences aloud.
“His confidence in himself has soared and he tells me he is being given harder work as an apprentice because of his increased ability to read English.”
Diana, Read Easy UK Volunteer
Thank you Read Easy. You are transforming lives.
Find out more about volunteering at Read Easy UK
Click here to see a role description
Volunteers
Help someone discover the joy of reading
A little of your time can open up whole new worlds for someone else. Find out how you can support learners and be part of the National Year of Reading across 2026.
